Description
Spaghetti Fra Diavolo is a spicy Italian pasta dish featuring al dente spaghetti tossed in a garlicky tomato sauce, enhanced with red pepper flakes and fresh herbs. Topped with Parmesan cheese, this dish is perfect for those who love a bit of heat in their meals.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water, add a generous amount of salt, and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add the spaghetti to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water.
- Drain the spaghetti in a colander and set aside without rinsing.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Stir in the red pepper flakes and sauté for another 30 seconds.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir well to combine.
- Add the sugar, salt, and black pepper to taste.
- Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the chopped basil and let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet and toss until well coated. Add reserved pasta water as needed for desired consistency.
- Taste the pasta and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Twirl a portion of spaghetti onto a plate for presentation.
- Sprinkle with additional basil, parsley, and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Serve hot with extra Parmesan on the side.
Notes
- Use high-quality olive oil and canned tomatoes for the best flavor. San Marzano tomatoes are recommended.
- Start with less red pepper flakes if unsure about the heat, and add more to taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes