Description
Penne Arrabbiata with smoked turkey bacon is a vibrant and hearty pasta dish combining bold, spicy flavors and smoky richness. Enhanced with fresh herbs and a zesty tomato sauce, this quick and easy recipe brings a fiery, savory experience perfect for any occasion. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s an adaptable favorite full of comforting textures and fresh taste.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 250g penne pasta
Protein and Flavorings
- 100g smoked turkey bacon, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
Vegetables and Herbs
- 400g fresh ripe tomatoes, diced
- Handful fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Handful fresh parsley leaves, chopped
Optional
- Plant-based cheese (plant-based), for sprinkling
- 1/2 tsp natural gelling agent
- Additional seasoning: salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne just until al dente, about 10 to 12 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving one cup of the pasta water for later use.
- Cook the smoked turkey bacon: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped smoked turkey bacon and sauté until crispy and golden for 5 to 7 minutes, releasing a smoky aroma.
- Build the spicy tomato sauce: Add minced garlic and red chili flakes to the skillet with the turkey bacon and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in diced fresh tomatoes and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural). Let the sauce simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add reserved pasta water mixed with the natural gelling agent as needed to thicken the sauce.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Toss the cooked penne into the skillet with the spicy tomato sauce. Mix gently to coat every piece evenly. Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Finish with fresh herbs and plant-based cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and fold in chopped basil and parsley for freshness. Optionally, sprinkle plant-based cheese (plant-based) over the top while still warm to melt delightfully into the sauce.
Notes
- Use fresh tomatoes when possible for a naturally vibrant and flavorful sauce.
- Reserve and use pasta water to help the sauce cling to the pasta and add silkiness.
- Gently toast chili flakes in oil to maximize their flavor before adding tomatoes.
- Cook pasta al dente for best texture and to hold up well in the sauce.
- Add fresh herbs last minute to keep their bright flavor intact.
- Balance heat with a pinch of natural sugars from fresh tomatoes or a splash of grape juice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
Keywords: Penne Arrabbiata, smoky pasta, spicy tomato sauce, smoked turkey bacon, plant-based cheese, quick pasta recipe, Italian-inspired dish
