This Penne in Spicy Red Pasta Sauce is a flavorful and bold dish that combines the richness of a tomato-based sauce with a spicy kick. The penne pasta is coated in the spicy sauce, making it a perfect choice for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their meals.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- Penne pasta: 300 g
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
- Crushed tomatoes: 1 can (400 g)
- Tomato paste: 2 tbsp
- Red chili flakes: 1-2 tsp (adjust to your spice level)
- Dried oregano: 1 tsp
- Fresh basil: ¼ cup, chopped (or 1 tsp dried basil)
- Sugar: 1 tsp (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt and pepper: To taste
- Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated, for garnish
- Fresh parsley: Chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Penne Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving ½ cup of pasta water, and set aside.
- Prepare the Spicy Red Sauce:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-5 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Bring to a simmer.
- Season the sauce with red chili flakes, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine and the sauce to thicken.
- Optional: Add sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes if needed.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the spicy tomato sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce.
- If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
- Serve:
- Serve the spicy penne pasta in bowls, garnished with fresh basil, parsley, and grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips for the Best Spicy Red Pasta Sauce:
- Adjust the heat: If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of red chili flakes.
- Add protein: For extra protein, add grilled chicken, sausage, or meatballs to the dish.
- Make it smoky: Add a dash of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor to complement the heat.
This Penne in Spicy Red Pasta Sauce is the perfect combination of spicy, savory, and hearty flavors. It’s a quick and easy dish that’s sure to satisfy your craving for a little heat with your pasta!
