Spicy Rigatoni
Introduction
Spicy Rigatoni is a delicious and bold pasta dish that brings the heat without overwhelming your taste buds. It’s perfect for anyone who enjoys a flavorful meal with a bit of a kick. This recipe is simple and quick to prepare, making it a great choice for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Spicy Rigatoni is a fantastic way to enjoy a satisfying meal packed with flavor. The combination of garlic, spicy red pepper flakes, and sweet San Marzano tomatoes creates a rich sauce that clings to the rigatoni perfectly. Plus, it’s easy to adjust the spice level to suit your taste or the preferences of your family and friends. For a comforting and hearty dish that can be ready in no time, Spicy Rigatoni is a winner!
How to Make Spicy Rigatoni
Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves (thinly sliced)
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 28-ounce can whole San Marzano tomatoes, hand-crushed or blended
- Salt (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 16 ounces rigatoni pasta
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (finely chopped)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (torn)
- Freshly grated Pecorino Romano cheese (for garnish)
- Additional red pepper flakes (for garnish, optional)
- A light drizzle of olive oil (for serving, optional)
Directions:
Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté until the garlic is golden, but be careful not to burn it.
Simmer the Tomatoes: Pour in the canned San Marzano tomatoes, and use a spoon to break them up if you prefer a chunkier sauce. Season with salt and add the granulated sugar if desired. Let the sauce simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Cook the Pasta: While the sauce is simmering, cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the rigatoni to the sauce in the skillet. Toss everything together, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce seems too thick. Stir until the pasta is coated in the spicy sauce.
Add Herbs and Garnish: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped parsley and torn basil. Serve the Spicy Rigatoni in bowls, topped with freshly grated Pecorino Romano cheese. You can also add more red pepper flakes and a drizzle of olive oil if you like.
How to Serve Spicy Rigatoni
Serve Spicy Rigatoni hot, straight from the skillet. You can offer additional cheese and red pepper flakes on the side for those who want to customize their dish. It pairs perfectly with a simple green salad and a crusty piece of bread.
How to Store Spicy Rigatoni
If you have leftovers, let the rigatoni cool and then transfer it to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil as needed to loosen the sauce.
Tips to Make Spicy Rigatoni
- Adjust the crushed red pepper flakes according to your spice preference.
- Use fresh tomatoes when in season for an even fresher flavor.
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta. Al dente pasta holds up better with sauce.
Variation
For a lighter version, you can substitute half of the rigatoni with whole wheat pasta or zucchini noodles. You can also add cooked chicken, shrimp, or vegetables to make it more filling.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you like, but rigatoni is great for holding onto the sauce.
2. How spicy is this dish?
The spice level depends on how much crushed red pepper you use. You can adjust it to your taste.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and cook the pasta just before serving. It’s best to store the sauce and pasta separately to keep everything fresh.