Spicy Arrabbiata Orzo Pasta (Printable Version)

Bold orzo in spicy tomato sauce with chili, herbs, and Parmesan. Quick Italian comfort, full of flavor.

# What You'll Need:

→ Pasta

01 - 11 oz orzo pasta

→ Sauce

02 - 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
03 - 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
04 - 1 red chili, finely sliced or 1 teaspoon red chili flakes
05 - 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes
06 - 1 tablespoon tomato paste
07 - 1 teaspoon sugar
08 - 1 teaspoon sea salt
09 - 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Finishing & Garnish

10 - 1 oz fresh basil leaves, torn
11 - 1.5 oz freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
12 - 1 tablespoon chopped flat-leaf parsley (optional)

# Directions:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add orzo and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water, and set aside.
02 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and chili, sauté for 1–2 minutes until aromatic but not browned.
03 - Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Add canned crushed tomatoes, sugar, sea salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce slightly thickens.
04 - Add drained orzo to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Toss to coat, gradually adding reserved pasta water to achieve a silky texture.
05 - Remove from heat. Stir in torn basil and grated Parmesan. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.
06 - Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan and chopped parsley if desired.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • Simple ingredients almost all from the pantry
  • Quick prep and cook time so it's ready in 30 minutes
  • Adjustable heat for spice lovers or the spice shy
  • One pot for the sauce means minimal cleanup
  • Vegetarian and easily made vegan with a cheese swap
02 -
  • Packs in fiber and protein from the wheat and Parmesan
  • Stands up well to freezing and reheating
  • Easy to adapt for gluten-free or vegan diets
03 -
  • Always toast your tomato paste in the oil before adding the tomatoes as it makes the flavor richer and more savory
  • Save your pasta water as the starch in it helps make the sauce creamy and cling to each piece of orzo
  • Tear basil with your hands instead of chopping to prevent bruising and keep the flavor fresh
  • Taste at every step especially for salt and chili you want it bold but balanced

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