Spicy Arrabbiata Spaghetti with Olives

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Steps

1. 1 Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente.
2. 2 While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. 3 Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. 4 Stir in crushed tomatoes, olives, red pepper flakes, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper.
5. 5 Simmer sauce for about 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
6. 6 Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
7. 7 Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed for desired consistency.
8. 8 Remove from heat and stir in fresh basil.
9. 9 Serve immediately with grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Equipment

• Large pot
• Large skillet
• Colander

Variations

• Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
• Substitute black olives for green olives for a different flavor profile.

Substitutions

• If fresh basil isn't available, use 1 tsp dried basil instead.
• Use chili flakes if you don't have red pepper flakes.

Pairings

• A glass of robust red wine like a Chianti complements this dish perfectly.
• Finish the meal with a simple lemon sorbet to cleanse the palate.

Nutrition

Tips

• Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your spice tolerance.
• For a creamier sauce, stir in a tablespoon of butter at the end.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water to maintain sauce consistency.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little pasta water to loosen.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp Caesar salad for a complete meal.
• Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

FAQ