Spicy Penne Pasta

1. Cook the Penne:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
   • Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
   • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the minced garlic and finely chopped onion. Sauté until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add Tomatoes and Spices:
   • Stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce.
   • Add the red pepper flakes, dried oregano, and dried basil. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
   • Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
   • Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the sauce.
   • Toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
   • If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of pasta water to reach the desired consistency.
5. Serve:
   • Transfer the spicy penne pasta to serving plates.
   • Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley.

Serving Suggestions:

• Pair with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
• Serve with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Zinfandel, to complement the spicy flavors.

Cooking Tips:

• Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your heat preference. Start with 1 teaspoon and add more if you like it spicier.
• For a richer flavor, add a splash of red wine to the sauce as it simmers.
• You can add cooked sausage, grilled chicken, or shrimp for added protein.

Nutritional Benefits:

• Tomatoes: Provide a good source of vitamins A and C, and lycopene, an antioxidant beneficial for heart health.
• Garlic: Offers anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
• Olive Oil: Contains healthy monounsaturated fats that are good for heart health.

Dietary Information:

• Vegetarian: This recipe is vegetarian-friendly.
• Can Be Made Vegan: Use a vegan Parmesan alternative or omit the cheese.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free penne pasta to make this dish gluten-free.

Conclusion:

Spicy Penne Pasta is a delightful and zesty dish that brings a fiery twist to classic pasta. The combination of garlic, onion, and red pepper flakes creates a robust sauce that perfectly coats the penne, making each bite a flavorful experience. Easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying, this recipe is perfect for spice lovers looking to jazz up their pasta night. Enjoy this bold and spicy dish with your loved ones and savor the warmth and excitement of its flavors. Buon appetito!