Homemade Arrabiatta Sauce

This spicy Arrabiatta Sauce Recipe is made with olive oil, red pepper flakes, onion, garlic, San Marzano Tomatoes, salt and pepper.

Welcome to our culinary journey into the world of Arrabiata sauce! Bursting with robust flavors and a fiery kick, Arrabiata sauce is a classic Italian tomato-based sauce that is sure to tantalize your taste buds. Originating from the Lazio region of Italy, this sauce is beloved for its simplicity and versatility. With its signature combination of tangy tomatoes, aromatic garlic, spicy red pepper flakes, and fragrant herbs, Arrabiata sauce packs a punch that will awaken your senses. Whether you're a spice lover or simply enjoy bold and vibrant flavors, join us as we explore the secrets to creating a homemade Arrabiata sauce that will elevate your pasta dishes to new heights.

Arrabiata sauce is typically cooked in olive oil, which adds a luscious and smooth texture while enhancing the flavors. Other seasonings such as salt, pepper, and herbs like basil or oregano may be added to further enhance the taste. The sauce is most commonly served with pasta, such as penne or spaghetti, but it can also be used as a flavorful topping for other dishes like pizza or grilled meats. Its bold and fiery flavors make it a favorite among spice enthusiasts and those seeking a taste adventure.

Jump to:

• What is Arrabiata Sauce?
• Why you will love this recipe
• Arrabiatta Sauce Recipe Ingredients
• How to make Arrabiatta Sauce
• What to serve with Arrabiatta Sauce
• Substitutions
• Arrabiatta Sauce Recipe Variations
• Equipment
• How to store Arrabiatta Sauce
• Arrabiatta Sauce Recipe Top tips
• Homemade Arrabiatta Sauce
• Food safety

What is Arrabiata Sauce?

Arrabiata sauce is a spicy and flavorful Italian sauce that is primarily made with tomatoes, garlic, red chili peppers, and olive oil. The name "Arrabiata" translates to "angry" in Italian, referring to the fiery and intense heat of the sauce. It is traditionally associated with the Lazio region of Italy, particularly the city of Rome.

The key ingredients in Arrabiata sauce include tomatoes, either in the form of crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes, which provide a rich and tangy base. Garlic is a prominent flavor, giving the sauce its aromatic and savory notes. The star of Arrabiata sauce is the red chili peppers or red pepper flakes, which add a spicy kick and give the sauce its characteristic heat.

Why you will love this recipe

• Spicy Kick: The fiery heat of Arrabiata sauce adds a thrilling and invigorating element to any dish. It awakens the taste buds and provides a tantalizing experience for those who appreciate spicy flavors.
• Robust Flavor: The combination of tomatoes, garlic, and red chili peppers creates a robust and intense flavor profile. The tanginess of the tomatoes, the pungency of the garlic, and the heat from the peppers come together harmoniously to create a sauce that is rich, savory, and unforgettable.
• Versatility: Arrabiata sauce is incredibly versatile and can be used in various dishes. It pairs exceptionally well with pasta, such as penne or spaghetti, but can also be used as a condiment for pizzas, as a dipping sauce for bread, or as a flavorful topping for grilled meats and vegetables.
• Simplicity: Despite its bold flavors, Arrabiata sauce is remarkably simple to make. With just a handful of key ingredients and minimal preparation, you can whip up a batch of this delicious sauce in no time. It's an excellent option for quick and easy meals without sacrificing taste.
• Customizable Heat Level: The spiciness of Arrabiata sauce can be adjusted to suit individual preferences. You have the flexibility to add more or less red chili flakes, allowing you to tailor the sauce's heat to your liking. This adaptability ensures that everyone can enjoy Arrabiata sauce at their desired spice level.

Arrabiatta Sauce Recipe Ingredients

You'll only need a few simple ingredients to make this. The exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below. Here's an overview of what you'll need:

• Olive oil
• Red pepper flakes
• Yellow onion
• Garlic
• San Marzano Tomatoes
• Bay leaves
• Salt and pepper

See recipe card for Arrabiatta Sauce Recipe quantities.

How to make Arrabiatta Sauce

What to serve with Arrabiatta Sauce

• Pasta: The classic choice is to serve Arrabiata sauce with pasta, such as penne, spaghetti, or rigatoni. The sauce coats the pasta beautifully, creating a flavorful and satisfying combination.
• Grilled Chicken or Shrimp: Grilled chicken or shrimp make excellent protein choices to serve alongside Arrabiata sauce. The spiciness of the sauce complements the smoky and savory flavors of the grilled meat or seafood. Check out my Chicken Arrabiata Recipe.
• Garlic Bread: A side of garlic bread is a perfect complement to Arrabiata sauce. The crispy, buttery bread pairs well with the spicy sauce and allows you to savor every bit of the flavorful sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant, make a healthy and tasty accompaniment to Arrabiata sauce. The roasted flavors and textures of the vegetables balance out the spiciness of the sauce.
• Bruschetta: Serve Arrabiata sauce with bruschetta, which is toasted bread topped with fresh tomatoes, garlic, and basil. The combination of the tangy tomato bruschetta and the spicy Arrabiata sauce creates a delightful contrast of flavors.
• Pizza: Arrabiata sauce can be used as a unique and fiery pizza sauce. Spread it on a pizza crust and top it with your favorite ingredients like mozzarella cheese, olives, and pepperoni for a spicy twist on a classic favorite.

Substitutions

• Olive Oil: Olive oil can be substituted with other cooking oils such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or grapeseed oil. Use a neutral-flavored oil that can withstand high heat.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Red pepper flakes provide heat and spiciness to the sauce. You can substitute them with dried chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce according to your preferred level of heat.
• Yellow Onion: Yellow onions can be replaced with white onions or shallots. They provide a similar savory and slightly sweet flavor to the sauce.
• Garlic: Garlic adds a distinct flavor to the sauce. If you don't have fresh garlic, you can use garlic powder or granulated garlic as a substitute. Use about half the amount stated in the recipe as the flavor of dried garlic is more concentrated.
• San Marzano Tomatoes: San Marzano tomatoes are known for their sweet and rich flavor. If you can't find them, you can use regular canned crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes as a substitute. Look for good-quality canned tomatoes to ensure a flavorful sauce.
• Bay Leaves: Bay leaves contribute a subtle aromatic note to the sauce. If you don't have bay leaves, you can omit them or use a pinch of dried thyme or dried oregano as a substitute.
• Salt and Pepper: Salt and pepper are essential for seasoning the sauce. Adjust the amount to your taste preference. If you're looking for a salt substitute, you can use a low-sodium vegetable broth or a sprinkle of soy sauce.

Arrabiatta Sauce Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Arrabiata Sauce: Skip the meat and create a vegetarian version of Arrabiata sauce. Add an assortment of sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, or mushrooms to the sauce for added texture and flavor. You can also incorporate ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes or black olives for an extra burst of taste.
• Creamy Arrabiata Sauce: For a creamy twist, blend some heavy cream or coconut milk into the Arrabiata sauce. This addition adds richness and smoothness to balance out the spiciness. Stir in the cream or coconut milk towards the end of cooking, allowing it to heat through without boiling.
• Arrabiata with Pancetta or Bacon: For meat lovers, enhance the sauce's flavor by adding crispy pancetta or bacon. Cook the pancetta or bacon in a separate pan until crisp, then add it to the sauce towards the end of cooking. The smoky and savory notes of the pancetta or bacon complement the spiciness of the sauce.
• Roasted Garlic Arrabiata Sauce: Elevate the flavor profile by using roasted garlic instead of fresh garlic. Roasting garlic imparts a sweet and mellow taste. Simply wrap a whole garlic bulb in foil, drizzle with olive oil, and roast in the oven until soft and golden. Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves into the sauce, mashing them with a fork.
• Arrabiata with Fresh Herbs: Enhance the sauce's freshness by adding aromatic herbs like basil, parsley, or oregano. Chop the herbs finely and stir them into the sauce just before serving. The herbs add a burst of herbal fragrance and brighten up the dish.
• Arrabiata with Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Introduce an intense burst of flavor by incorporating chopped or sliced sun-dried tomatoes. These concentrated tomatoes add a sweet and tangy element to the sauce. You can use them in addition to or instead of fresh tomatoes.

Equipment

To make my Arrabiatta Sauce Recipe, you will need:

• Saucepan or Pot: A medium-sized saucepan or dutch oven is essential for cooking the sauce. Choose one with a heavy bottom to ensure even heat distribution and prevent the sauce from scorching.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Use a wooden spoon or silicone spatula for stirring and mixing the ingredients while the sauce cooks. These utensils are heat-resistant and won't scratch the surface of your saucepan.
• Chef's Knife: A sharp chef's knife is necessary for chopping the garlic and other ingredients if needed. Make sure your knife is suitable for slicing through vegetables and herbs.
• Cutting Board: Use a cutting board to provide a stable surface for chopping your garlic and any other ingredients. Choose one that is large enough to comfortably accommodate the ingredients.
• Immersion Blender or Blender (optional): If you prefer a smoother consistency for your Arrabiata sauce, you can use an immersion blender or transfer the sauce to a countertop blender. This equipment is optional, as the sauce can also be enjoyed with a chunkier texture.
• Measuring Spoons: Measuring spoons are useful for accurately portioning out the spices and herbs required for the sauce. It ensures you achieve the right balance of flavors.
• Can Opener: If you're using canned tomatoes or artichokes, a can opener is necessary to open the cans before adding the ingredients to the sauce.

How to store Arrabiatta Sauce

To store my Arrabiatta Sauce Recipe properly and keep it fresh for later use, follow these guidelines:

1. Allow the Sauce to Cool: Before storing Arrabiata sauce, let it cool completely at room temperature. This helps prevent condensation and maintains the sauce's flavor and texture.
2. Choose Appropriate Containers: Transfer the cooled Arrabiata sauce to airtight containers or jars. Glass containers with tight-fitting lids are ideal for storing the sauce. Ensure the containers are clean and dry before use.
3. Refrigeration: Store the Arrabiata sauce in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. It can typically be refrigerated for up to 4 to 5 days. Make sure the temperature of your refrigerator is set below 40°F (4°C) to maintain food safety.
4. Freezing: Arrabiata sauce can be frozen for longer storage. If you want to freeze the sauce, consider portioning it into smaller containers or freezer bags. This allows you to thaw only the amount you need at a time. Leave some headspace in the containers to accommodate expansion during freezing.
5. Label and Date: To keep track of the sauce's freshness, label the containers with the name and date of preparation before storing them. This way, you can easily identify and use the sauce within the recommended storage time.
6. Thawing and Reheating: When you're ready to use the frozen Arrabiata sauce, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator to thaw slowly. Once thawed, reheat the sauce on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Avoid reheating it multiple times to maintain the sauce's quality.

Arrabiatta Sauce Recipe Top tips

• Adjust the Spice Level: The spiciness of Arrabiata sauce can be customized to your preference. Start with a moderate amount of red pepper flakes, and you can always add more later if desired. Taste as you go and adjust accordingly.
• Quality Ingredients: Choose high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Opt for ripe and juicy tomatoes, preferably San Marzano tomatoes for their sweet taste. Fresh garlic and good-quality olive oil can elevate the overall taste of the sauce.
• Sauté the Garlic Carefully: When sautéing the garlic, be careful not to burn it. Burnt garlic can impart a bitter flavor to the sauce. Cook it gently over low to medium heat until it becomes fragrant and just lightly golden.
• Simmer for Flavor Infusion: Allow the sauce to simmer on low heat for a while to let the flavors meld together. This slow simmering process allows the sauce to develop depth and richness.
• Seasoning Balance: Taste the sauce before adding additional salt or spices. Depending on the canned tomatoes and other ingredients used, they may already have some salt content. Adjust the seasoning accordingly to achieve the right balance of flavors.
• Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, near the end of cooking can enhance the taste and provide a fresh aroma. Stir in the herbs just before serving to preserve their vibrant color and flavor.
• Let it Rest: After cooking, let the Arrabiata sauce rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to further develop and mingle.
• Experiment with Additions: Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients to personalize your Arrabiata sauce. Consider adding diced bell peppers, olives, or even cooked Italian sausage for extra flavor and texture.

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Food safety

• Cook to a minimum temperature of 165 °F (74 °C)
• Do not use the same utensils on cooked food, that previously touched raw meat
• Wash hands after touching raw meat
• Don't leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods
• Never leave cooking food unattended
• Use oils with high smoking point to avoid harmful compounds
• Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove

See more guidelines at USDA.gov.