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Spicy Garlic Penne Pasta

This dish features al dente penne pasta coated in a fiery tomato sauce infused with garlic and red chili flakes. The sauce is simmered until thick and vibrant, clinging to each piece of pasta for a bold, flavorful bite with a slightly chewy texture and a hint of heat on the palate.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 400 g penne pasta uncooked
  • 4 cloves garlic finely minced
  • 3 tbsp olive oil extra virgin
  • 1 tsp red chili flakes
  • 800 g canned crushed tomatoes or passata
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh parsley chopped for garnish

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Deep skillet or frying pan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Strainer or colander
  • Measuring spoons

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the penne pasta. Cook until al dente according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red chili flakes, sautéing until the garlic is fragrant and just starting to turn golden, about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
  3. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, stirring to combine with the garlic and chili. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld, about 10 minutes.
  4. Add salt to taste, then taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed. Once the sauce has thickened and become vibrant red, turn off the heat.
  5. Transfer the cooked penne into the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat each piece of pasta evenly with the spicy tomato sauce.
  6. Serve the spicy garlic penne hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for color and freshness.

Notes

Feel free to sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra richness. Adjust the chili flakes to your preferred spice level.