
Few pasta sauces are as boldly satisfying as a well-made arrabbiata, and this one delivers that fiery, garlicky punch in every spoonful. It's built entirely from pantry staples — good olive oil, San Marzano tomatoes, garlic, and red pepper flakes — which means there's no meat, no hidden animal proteins, and nothing to second-guess for anyone managing a red meat sensitivity. The technique is straightforward but intentional: the garlic is coaxed slowly in olive oil until just golden, the chili flakes bloom in that same fragrant base, and the tomatoes simmer down into a glossy, thick sauce that clings beautifully to pasta. San Marzanos bring a natural sweetness that balances the heat without needing any added sugar or extra ingredients. The whole thing comes together in under half an hour, making it an easy weeknight win that doesn't feel like a compromise. A scatter of fresh flat-leaf parsley at the end lifts the whole dish with a little brightness. Whether you're cooking for someone with dietary restrictions or just craving something deeply flavorful and fuss-free, this sauce earns a permanent spot in the rotation.
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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.
Add the red pepper flakes and stir for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
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