Spicy Arrabiata Penne

3 steps · 17 min total

1. 01

   Cook the Penne

   Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add a generous pinch of kosher salt, then drop in the penne. Cook according to package directions, usually around 9 minutes, until the pasta is al dente.
2. 02

   Build the Sauce

   While the pasta cooks, warm the 1/4 cup olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it just starts to shimmer. Add the sliced garlic and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 to 2 minutes, until it smells fragrant but hasn't taken on any color.

   Stir in the can of chopped tomatoes, 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes, and 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning, along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring the sauce to a boil, then lower the heat slightly and let it simmer for 5 minutes. Take the skillet off the heat and stir in the chopped basil leaves.

3. 03

   Combine and Serve

   Drain the cooked penne, reserving a little pasta water if you like a looser sauce, and add it directly to the skillet with the arrabiata. Toss to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce. Serve warm, topped with a sprinkle of Parmigiano-Reggiano and a few extra basil leaves.