# Rigatoni Arrabbiata: A Spicy Italian Treat
Rigatoni Arrabbiata is a timeless Italian pasta recipe that features the vibrant flavors of spicy tomato sauce, garlic, and red chili flakes. This dish is not only easy to make but also offers a dine-in experience right at home.
## Flavor Profile
The defining characteristic of Arrabbiata sauce is its unique fiery essence, primarily from the red chili flakes. This dish suits those who appreciate a kick in their meals. The mixture of canned tomatoes, onions, garlic, and Italian herbs forms a deep and tasty sauce that adheres splendidly to the rigatoni pasta.
## Skill Level
One of the most appealing features of Rigatoni Arrabbiata is its simplicity. With uncomplicated ingredients and a cooking duration of just a few minutes, even beginner cooks can create this dish effortlessly.
## Ingredient Tips
### Pasta
Rigatoni is the perfect selection for this recipe because of its textured surface, which holds the sauce exceptionally well. Other suitable pasta shapes include penne, rotini, ziti, or cavatappi.
### Sauce
The sauce’s quality is vital. Choose premium canned tomatoes and tomato paste for optimal flavor. Modify the quantity of red chili flakes based on your spice tolerance, keeping in mind that the heat level will increase as it cooks. If the sauce turns out too spicy, you can mellow it by adding a bit of sugar or grated carrot.
### Variations
For a variation of the classic Arrabbiata, consider making it a Puttanesca sauce by adding capers, anchovies, and olives. Crown with a sprinkle of pecorino or parmesan cheese and fresh basil for extra flavor.
## Cooking Instructions
1. **Sauté Aromatics**: Warm oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté until soft, roughly 4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic, red chili flakes, and basil, cooking for another minute.
2. **Prepare Sauce**: To the saucepan, add canned tomatoes, tomato paste, salt, pepper, and sugar. Simmer uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes.
3. **Cook Pasta**: While the sauce simmers, boil the rigatoni according to package instructions. Drain, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
4. **Combine**: Mix the rigatoni with the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as necessary to reach the desired thickness.
5. **Serve**: Dish into bowls and finish with a drizzle of olive oil, grated parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs if desired.
## Leftover Storage
Excess Rigatoni Arrabbiata can be kept in a covered container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat portions in the microwave. The sauce can also be frozen in zip-lock bags for up to 3 months and warmed on low-medium heat on the stovetop.
## Nutritional Information
– **Calories**: 504
– **Carbohydrates**: 90g
– **Protein**: 16g
– **Fat**: 9g
– **Sodium**: 661mg
– **Fiber**: 5g
## Serving Suggestions
Elevate your meal by incorporating seasoned ground beef, Italian sausage, or shrimp into the sauce. Complement it with homemade cheesy garlic breadsticks to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Rigatoni Arrabbiata is a delicious dish that brings the essence and comfort of Italian cuisine to your dining table. With its lively sauce and robust pasta, it is sure to be a favorite among pasta enthusiasts.