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Spicy Pasta

A quick and flavorful pasta with garlic, red pepper flakes, diced tomatoes, and spinach for a spicy, savory dish perfect for weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 12 oz spaghetti or linguine
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes adjust to taste
  • 1 can 14 oz diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups spinach fresh or frozen
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh basil for garnish
  • Parmesan cheese grated, for serving (optional)

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Large skillet or frying pan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Knife and cutting board

Method
 

  1. Fill a large pot with water, bring to a rolling boil over high heat, and season generously with salt.
  2. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8–10 minutes.
  3. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  4. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, ensuring garlic does not brown.
  5. Pour in diced tomatoes, stir to combine, and let simmer for about 5 minutes.
  6. Stir in spinach and cook for 2 minutes until wilted.
  7. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain pasta and add it to the skillet. Toss to coat, adding pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
  8. Season with salt to taste, garnish with fresh basil, and serve topped with grated Parmesan if desired.

Notes

Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining to adjust sauce consistency when mixing.