Spicy Tomato Pasta
This easy Spicy Tomato Pasta features bold flavors from garlic, chili flakes, and crushed tomatoes. It's quick, satisfying, and perfect for weeknight meals. Naturally vegetarian and easy to make vegan or gluten-free.
Prep
: 10
Total
: 25 minutes
Ingredients
- 8 oz 225g pasta (any type)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic sliced or minced
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes more or less to taste
- 1 tsp chili paste or harissa optional
- 1 14 oz can crushed tomatoes
- ½ tsp sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil optional
- Grated Parmesan or vegan cheese optional
Instructions
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup water, then drain.
- In a skillet, sauté garlic in olive oil for 1–2 minutes.
- Add red pepper flakes and chili paste; cook 30 seconds.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, sugar, salt, and pepper. Simmer 10–12 minutes.
- Add cooked pasta to sauce. Toss well, adding pasta water if needed.
- Remove from heat. Add basil and cheese if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this GF.
- Add crushed chili or smoked paprika for extra flavor.
- Store leftover sauce separately for longer shelf life.