Name: Penne Arrabbiata
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (natural); 3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced; 2 red chili peppers, finely chopped (adjust to preferred spice level); 4 cups fresh ripe tomatoes, chopped; 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural); 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (natural); Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; 400 grams penne pasta (gluten-free if preferred); 1/4 cup reserved pasta water; 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; Extra virgin olive oil (natural), for drizzling; Plant-based cheese (plant-based), optional, for topping

Penne Arrabbiata is a fiery and flavorful pasta dish that brings together the zest of fresh tomatoes, the kick of chili peppers, and the fragrance of aromatic herbs for a delicious plant-based twist you’ll love to try today. This classic Italian recipe is all about bold, spicy flavors that wake up your taste buds and make every bite an absolute joy, perfect for anyone seeking a simple yet impressive meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simplicity at Its Best: Penne Arrabbiata uses a handful of easy-to-find ingredients that pack a powerful punch in taste.
Perfect Plant-Based Twist: Crafted with wholesome, plant-based ingredients for a meal that’s both comforting and nourishing.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s ideal for busy days when you want something homemade and satisfying.
Customizable Heat Level: Adjust the chili to suit your preferred spice, making it mild or fiery hot as you please.
Vibrant and Colorful: Loads of fresh tomatoes and herbs brighten the dish, making it as beautiful as it is tasty.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Penne Arrabbiata recipe keeps things beautifully straightforward, relying on fresh, quality ingredients that contribute to its rich flavor, texture, and inviting color. Each element plays a key role, from the spicy chili enhancing heat to the fresh tomatoes providing a robust base.

Fresh Tomatoes: Choose ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best natural sweetness and acidic balance.
Penne Pasta: The perfect shape to hold the spicy sauce and create a satisfying bite.
Garlic Cloves: Adds a warm, fragrant base that deepens the overall flavor.
Red Chili Peppers: The heart of the dish for that distinct sharp heat sensation.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil (natural): Provides a smooth richness and helps blend the sauce harmoniously.
Fresh Basil and Parsley: Bright herbs add freshness and a lovely aromatic finish.
Vegetarian Worcestershire Sauce (natural): A subtle umami kick to enhance the sauce complexity.
Apple Cider Vinegar (natural): Adds a touch of tartness to balance the tomatoes’ sweetness perfectly.
Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasonings to round out the flavors beautifully.

Variations for Penne Arrabbiata

One of the joys of this recipe is how easy it is to adapt and make your own. Whether you’re aiming for different textures, flavors, or dietary preferences, here are some exciting variations to try that keep the spirit of Penne Arrabbiata alive.

Add Roasted Vegetables: Toss in some roasted bell peppers or zucchini for extra heartiness and color.
Include Plant-Based Protein: Stir in chickpeas or plant-based sausage to boost protein and create a filling meal.
Swap Chili Types: Use smoked paprika or chipotle for a smoky depth with milder heat.
Make It Creamy: Blend in a little crust plant-based cheese or creamy cashew sauce for a smooth twist.
Fresh Herb Mix: Experiment with oregano or thyme alongside basil and parsley for varied herbal notes.

Spicy Penne Arrabbiata Recipes to Try Now

How to Make Penne Arrabbiata

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Start by heating extra virgin olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Sauté thinly sliced garlic and finely chopped red chili peppers until fragrant but not burnt. Then, add chopped fresh tomatoes, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), and a splash of apple cider vinegar (natural). Let the mixture simmer gently so the flavors meld and the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook penne pasta until just al dente according to package instructions. Drain, reserving a quarter cup of pasta water in case you want to loosen the sauce later for perfect coating.

Step 3: Combine and Toss

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce pan and toss everything together over low heat. If the sauce needs thinning, stir in a bit of the reserved pasta water gradually. Finish with chopped fresh basil and parsley, seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 4: Final Touch

Plate your Penne Arrabbiata with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for shine and, if desired, sprinkle plant-based cheese on top for a creamy contrast against the spicy sauce.

Pro Tips for Making Penne Arrabbiata

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh tomatoes and herbs elevate the dish from ordinary to extraordinary.
Control the Heat: Start with less chili and add more as you go to find your perfect spice level.
Reserve Pasta Water: It’s magic for adjusting your sauce consistency without watering down flavors.
Cook Pasta Just Right: Al dente penne holds the sauce beautifully and keeps a satisfying bite.
Simmer Slowly: A low and slow simmer allows flavors to blend deeply while developing a rich sauce texture.

How to Serve Penne Arrabbiata

Garnishes

Fresh basil leaves and chopped parsley add vibrant color and a herbaceous lift, while a sprinkle of plant-based cheese creates a creamy, savory finish. Drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil for a glossy peripheral shine that also enhances richness.

Side Dishes

Pair with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon juice and olive oil to balance the heat and richness. Garlic bread made with plant-based butter offers a crunchy, flavorful companion to scoop up any extra sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve Penne Arrabbiata in rustic earthenware bowls for that traditional Italian feel. For gatherings, present it buffet-style alongside bowls of extra fresh herbs, plant-based cheese, and chili flakes so guests can customize to their liking.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The pasta might absorb more sauce overnight, so it might be thicker when reheated.

Freezing

Freeze Penne Arrabbiata in suitable containers for up to two months. Separate into portions for easy thawing. To maintain texture, avoid freezing with fresh herbs or plant-based cheese added.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or vegetable broth as needed to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently to ensure even heating and to revive the original sauce consistency.

FAQs

Can I adjust the spiciness of Penne Arrabbiata?

Absolutely! The beauty of this dish is its flexibility add more or less chili peppers depending on how fiery you like your pasta.

Is penne the only pasta type I can use?

While penne is classic, other tubular or ridged pastas like rigatoni or ziti work wonderfully to hold the sauce as well.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply swap regular penne for gluten-free pasta varieties made from rice, corn, or legumes without compromising on taste.

How long does it take to make Penne Arrabbiata?

From preparation to plating, this recipe comes together in about 25 to 30 minutes, perfect for quick weeknight dinners.

What plant-based cheeses pair best with Penne Arrabbiata?

A crumbly or melting plant-based cheese like cashew-based parmesan or mozzarella style works great to complement the spicy tomato sauce.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about a classic Penne Arrabbiata that brings warmth and excitement to the table. Whether you are new to spicy pasta or a longtime fan, these simple and vibrant recipes invite you to savor plant-based goodness with every bite. Dive in and let your taste buds dance with this bold Italian favorite you’ll be reaching for seconds in no time!

Penne Arrabbiata

Author: Jonathan
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Plant-Based, Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

Penne Arrabbiata is a fiery and flavorful plant-based Italian pasta dish featuring ripe fresh tomatoes, spicy red chili peppers, garlic, and aromatic herbs. This quick and easy recipe is ready in under 30 minutes and can be adjusted for your preferred spice level. A comforting, vibrant meal perfect for any day of the week.

Instructions

Prepare the Sauce: Heat extra virgin olive oil (natural) in a large pan over medium heat. Sauté thinly sliced garlic and finely chopped red chili peppers until fragrant but not burnt. Add chopped fresh tomatoes, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), and apple cider vinegar (natural). Let the sauce simmer gently so flavors meld and it thickens slightly.
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne pasta until just al dente according to package instructions. Drain the pasta, reserving a quarter cup of pasta water.
Combine and Toss: Add cooked pasta to the sauce pan and toss over low heat. If the sauce is too thick, gradually stir in reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce for perfect coating. Stir in chopped fresh basil and parsley. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Final Touch: Plate the Penne Arrabbiata. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil (natural) for shine and, if desired, sprinkle plant-based cheese (plant-based) on top for a creamy contrast against the spicy sauce.