Ingredients
Scale
- 400g (14 oz) penne pasta
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 red chili peppers, finely chopped (adjust to heat preference)
- 400g (14 oz) canned crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (more if you like it spicy)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.
- While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped red chili peppers. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened.
- Pour in the canned crushed tomatoes. Stir in 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to infuse the sauce with heat. Season with a pinch of salt. Let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to develop rich, spicy flavors.
- Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the spicy tomato sauce. Toss well to coat each piece of pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, incorporate a little reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
- Remove from heat and stir in freshly chopped basil leaves. Serve topped with grated Parmesan cheese and extra chili flakes if desired. Enjoy this fiery tomato pasta as a satisfying lunch or dinner.
Notes
- Adjust spice level by increasing or decreasing the amount of red chili peppers and flakes.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for a more hearty, vegetable-packed version.
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier twist.
- Infuse the sauce with a splash of balsamic vinegar for added depth.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 460 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 64 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 14 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg