Ingredients
Scale
- 400g (14 oz) penne pasta
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2-3 red chili peppers, finely chopped (adjust for spice preference)
- 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (more for extra heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, 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, warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and chopped red chili peppers, sautéing until fragrant—about 1 minute. Be cautious not to burn the garlic.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir well. Add the red pepper flakes for an intense spicy kick. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
- Add the cooked penne pasta into the skillet with the fiery tomato sauce. Toss gently to ensure the pasta is evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
- To finish, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and, if desired, a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese. Serve hot with extra chili flakes on the side for those who crave more spice.
Notes
- Use ripe tomatoes and fresh chili peppers for the best flavor.
- Adjust spice levels gradually, tasting as you go to achieve your desired heat.
- If you prefer less spice, reduce the chili peppers or omit red pepper flakes.
- This dish can be prepared ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheat gently, adding a splash of water or olive oil to revive the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1 cup)
- Calories: 420 Kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg