1 Portion Arrabbiata Sauce contains about 127 calories. This spicy Italian sauce originated in Rome and has become a popular dish all over the world. Made with simple ingredients, Arrabbiata sauce is a versatile sauce that can be used as a dip or a topping for pasta, pizza, meat, or vegetables.

Arrabbiata sauce is a low-fat and low-calorie sauce. Tomatoes, garlic, and chili peppers are the primary ingredients of this sauce, which makes it a healthy option to add to your meals. It is also a great source of vitamin C and other antioxidants.

In this article, we'll explore the origin and variations of Arrabbiata sauce, its health benefits, serving ideas, storage tips, and how it differs from marinara sauce.

What is Arrabbiata Sauce?

Arrabbiata sauce is a spicy tomato-based sauce that originated in Rome, Italy. The term Arrabbiata translates to 'angry' in Italian and is used to describe the sauce's spiciness. The sauce is made with tomatoes, garlic, chili peppers, and olive oil. Traditionally, Arrabbiata sauce was made with dried red chili peppers, but today, fresh red chili peppers are commonly used. Arrabbiata sauce is a versatile sauce that can be used as a dip, spread, or pasta sauce.

Ingredients of Arrabbiata Sauce

The primary ingredients of Arrabbiata sauce are tomatoes, garlic, chili peppers, and olive oil. Additional ingredients can include red wine, onions, and basil. Some variations include adding anchovies, capers, or black olives. To make Arrabbiata sauce, tomatoes are first cooked until soft and then blended with garlic and chili peppers. Olive oil is added to the mixture, and the sauce is cooked until it thickens.

How is Arrabbiata Sauce made?

To make Arrabbiata sauce, start by sautéing garlic and chili peppers in olive oil until fragrant. Add canned or fresh tomatoes, tomato paste, and water to the mixture and bring it to a boil. Simmer the sauce for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened. Add salt, pepper, and sugar to taste. You can also use fresh herbs such as basil or oregano to add more flavor to the sauce.

The Origin of Arrabbiata Sauce

Arrabbiata sauce originated in Rome, Italy, in the mid-20th century. It was created by chefs who wanted to add a spicy kick to traditional tomato-based pasta sauces. The sauce's name refers to the fiery spiciness of the chili peppers used in the sauce.

Health Benefits of Arrabbiata Sauce

Arrabbiata sauce has several health benefits. Tomatoes are a rich source of vitamins A and C, which help boost immunity and reduce inflammation. Garlic has antibacterial and antifungal properties and can help reduce the risk of heart disease. Chili peppers contain capsaicin, a compound that has been shown to reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, and alleviate pain. Olive oil contains healthy monounsaturated fats, which can lower bad cholesterol levels.

Arrabbiata Sauce Variations

Arrabbiata sauce can be customized to suit different taste preferences. Some variations include adding anchovies, capers, or black olives. You can also substitute the chili peppers for other types of spicy peppers, such as jalapeños or habaneros. For a creamier version of Arrabbiata sauce, add heavy cream or grated cheese to the sauce. You can also make a vegetarian version of the sauce by omitting the anchovies and using vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.

Serving Ideas for Arrabbiata Sauce

Arrabbiata sauce is a versatile sauce that can be used as a dip or a topping for pasta, pizza, meat, or vegetables. It pairs well with spaghetti, penne, or rigatoni. You can use Arrabbiata sauce as a marinade for chicken or shrimp. It also makes a great dip for bread, crackers, or vegetables. Add the sauce to soups or stews to add some heat to the dish.

Ways to Store Arrabbiata Sauce

Arrabbiata sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days or frozen for up to three months. To freeze the sauce, let it cool completely, transfer to an airtight container, and freeze. Thaw the sauce in the refrigerator overnight before reheating it. You can reheat the sauce on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Arrabbiata Sauce vs Marinara Sauce

Arrabbiata sauce and marinara sauce are both tomato-based pasta sauces, but they differ in their ingredients and spiciness. Marinara sauce is made with tomatoes, garlic, onions, and herbs and is not spicy. Arrabbiata sauce, on the other hand, is made with tomatoes, garlic, chili peppers, and olive oil and is spicy. Arrabbiata sauce has a thicker and chunkier consistency than marinara sauce.

Simple Arrabbiata Sauce Recipe

Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil, 4 garlic cloves (minced), 1-2 red chili peppers (diced), 1 can of peeled tomatoes, 1 tablespoon tomato paste, 1/2 cup water, Salt and pepper to taste. Instructions: In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and chili peppers and sauté until fragrant. Add the canned tomatoes, tomato paste, and water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer the sauce for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened. Add salt and pepper to taste.