Name: Arrabbiata Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped; 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 1 teaspoon sea salt; 1 28-ounce can whole peeled San Marzano tomatoes; a pinch cane sugar

Arrabbiata sauce is the epitome of simplicity and flavor, bringing the heat with its bold ingredients and fresh taste. Originating from the Lazio region of Italy, this sauce is a delightful combination of tomatoes, garlic, and chili flakes, perfect for slathering over pasta or as a base for various dishes. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up a batch of Arrabbiata sauce that will elevate your meals and leave your taste buds dancing. Let’s dive deep into this timeless recipe that showcases the beauty of Italian cooking.

Why This Arrabbiata Sauce Stands Out

This Arrabbiata sauce stands out because of its vibrant flavor profile and the use of high-quality ingredients. The combination of San Marzano tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and a kick of red pepper flakes creates a sauce that is both fresh and spicy. What truly makes this sauce shine is the careful balance of flavors, allowing the rich tomato base to blend harmoniously with the heat from the chili flakes. Each spoonful is a testament to the idea that delicious meals can come from simple, wholesome ingredients.

What We’re Using

3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil: A high-quality olive oil adds richness and depth to the sauce.
1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped: Provides sweetness and a savory base for the sauce.
3 garlic cloves, finely chopped: Infuses the sauce with a fragrant aroma.
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Delivers the signature heat that defines Arrabbiata sauce.
1 teaspoon sea salt: Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients.
1 (28-ounce) can whole peeled San Marzano tomatoes: The star of the show, these tomatoes are sweet and flavorful, perfect for a rich sauce.
Pinch cane sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes, rounding out the flavor.

Recommended Tools

Large skillet: Ideal for sautéing the onions and garlic and simmering the sauce.
Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and preventing the sauce from sticking.
Can opener: For easily opening the can of San Marzano tomatoes.
Measuring spoons: Ensures precise measurements for consistent results.
Immersion blender (optional): For a smoother sauce if desired.

Method: Arrabbiata Sauce

Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil

In a large skillet, heat the 3 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. Allow the oil to warm up, creating a fragrant base for your sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions

Add the finely chopped medium yellow onion to the skillet. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become translucent and slightly golden.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Spice

Toss in the 3 finely chopped garlic cloves and 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Stir continuously for about 1-2 minutes, allowing the garlic to soften and the spices to release their aroma without burning.

Step 4: Incorporate the Tomatoes

Pour in the entire can of whole peeled San Marzano tomatoes, including the juice. Use your wooden spoon to break up the tomatoes into smaller pieces, mixing them with the sautéed onions and garlic.

Step 5: Season the Sauce

Add 1 teaspoon of sea salt and a pinch of cane sugar to the mixture. The sugar will help balance the acidity of the tomatoes, resulting in a more rounded flavor.

Step 6: Simmer

Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and reduce the heat to low. Allow it to cook uncovered for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will enable the flavors to meld beautifully and the sauce to thicken.

Step 7: Blend (Optional)

If you prefer a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to blend the mixture to your desired consistency. If you like a rustic texture, leave it as is!

Step 8: Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve your Arrabbiata sauce over your favorite pasta, or use it as a base for pizza or other Italian dishes. Enjoy the vibrant flavors with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or grated cheese on top, if desired.

Better-for-You Options

Whole Wheat Pasta: Pair your Arrabbiata sauce with whole wheat pasta for added fiber and nutrients.
Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, serve the sauce over spiralized zucchini noodles.
Reduced Sodium Option: Decrease the amount of sea salt to make the sauce lower in sodium.
Fresh Herbs: Add fresh basil or parsley for extra flavor and nutrients.

Errors to Dodge

Cooking is an art, and like any good artist, there are a few common mistakes to avoid when making Arrabbiata sauce:

Burning the Garlic: Garlic can turn bitter if overcooked; always sauté it just until fragrant.
Skipping the Sugar: A pinch of sugar helps to balance acidity—don’t skip it!
Using Low-Quality Tomatoes: San Marzano tomatoes are key to a flavorful sauce, so choose quality products.
Overcooking the Sauce: Keep an eye on your sauce to prevent it from thickening too much or burning.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

This Arrabbiata sauce is perfect for batch cooking! Here are some freezer-friendly notes:

Storage: Allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag.
Freezing: The sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months. Label the container with the date for easy tracking.
Defrosting: To enjoy, defrost the sauce in the refrigerator overnight or reheat it directly from frozen in a saucepan over low heat.

Questions People Ask

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Absolutely! If using fresh tomatoes, you’ll need about 2 pounds. Blanch, peel, and chop them before adding to the sauce for the best results.

How spicy is Arrabbiata sauce?

The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. Start with 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes, and add more if you like it hotter!

What dishes can I use Arrabbiata sauce in?

Aside from pasta, you can use Arrabbiata sauce on pizza, as a dipping sauce for breadsticks, or as a base for shakshuka.

Can I make Arrabbiata sauce ahead of time?

Yes! This sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for longer storage.

Ready to Cook?

Gather the ingredients and tools, and let’s get cooking! This Arrabbiata sauce is not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish to serve guests, this sauce will not disappoint. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and time again. Enjoy the process, taste the love in every bite, and savor the wonderful flavors of homemade Arrabbiata sauce!