Classic Rigatoni Arrabbiata

There’s nothing quite like the fiery kick and aromatic flair of a well-made Arrabbiata sauce. In this classic Italian dish, rigatoni pasta is bathed in a vibrant tomato-based sauce infused with crushed red pepper flakes and fennel seeds. It’s a simple yet satisfying recipe that perfectly balances heat and fresh flavors.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb rigatoni
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 sweet onion, chopped
• 8 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 (28 oz) can San Marzano tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon fennel seeds, crushed
• ¼ cup fresh basil, julienned
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Directions:

1. Cook the Rigatoni:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
• Cook the rigatoni al dente according to package instructions. Save ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set the pasta aside.

2. Start the Sauce:

• Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
• Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes or until translucent.
• Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning.

3. Simmer the Sauce:

• Add the San Marzano tomatoes, tomato paste, crushed red pepper flakes, and crushed fennel seeds to the pan.
• Bring the sauce to a low simmer and let it cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
• Stir in the julienned basil leaves and taste, adjusting the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

4. Combine with Pasta:

• Add the cooked rigatoni to the sauce along with ¼ cup of the reserved pasta water.
• Stir to combine until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.

5. Serve:

• Serve the pasta immediately, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and additional basil if desired.

Timing:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Tips for a Perfect Arrabbiata:

• Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce the amount of crushed red pepper flakes.
• Fennel Twist: Crushing the fennel seeds just before adding them releases more flavor into the sauce.
• Extra Creaminess: For a richer finish, add a tablespoon of butter to the sauce right before serving.

Conclusion:

This Classic Rigatoni Arrabbiata will quickly find a place in your weekly dinner rotation. The robust flavors are comforting yet exhilarating, making every bite a satisfying experience. Serve it with a fresh salad and some crusty bread, and you’ll have a meal that delights both your palate and your senses.

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