Caffeine Free Classic Arrabbiata Sauce
Few pasta sauces hit as hard as a good arrabbiata — fiery, garlicky, and deeply savory in a way that feels both rustic and restaurant-worthy. This version builds its bold flavor from just a handful of pantry staples: fruity San Marzano tomatoes, thinly sliced garlic coaxed to golden perfection, and a generous pinch of red pepper flakes that give the sauce its signature kick. The technique is simple but deliberate — slow-blooming the garlic in olive oil, then letting the tomatoes simmer down until the sauce thickens and turns glossy and rich. Every ingredient here is naturally free of caffeine, so there's no need to scrutinize labels or swap anything out; the recipe just works as written. A scatter of fresh parsley at the end adds a bright, herby finish that balances all that heat beautifully. Spoon it over your favorite pasta and you've got a weeknight dinner that tastes like it took far more effort than it did.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
- 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes, or more to taste
- 1 can (28 oz) whole peeled san marzano tomatoes
- ½ tsp kosher salt, plus more to taste
- ¼ tsp black pepper
For serving
- 2 tbsp fresh flat-leaf parsley, roughly chopped (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Pour the olive oil into a large saucepan or skillet and set over medium-low heat. Add the sliced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until the slices are pale golden at the edges and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes. Watch closely — garlic can go from golden to bitter quickly.
- 2
Add the red pepper flakes and stir for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!