Spice Up the Ides of March, Fairfield County

No need to fear the Ides of March this year, Fairfield County. Turn your luck around with a no-fail authentic Roman pasta recipe even Julius Ceaser would have enjoyed. Why not whip up some penne all’ arrabiata (translated as angry pasta because of dish’s spicy flavor) in honor of the great emperor’s fall? This is a recipe I inherited from an Italian aunt, slightly alterered to accommodate my fresh basil addicion.

Here’s what you’ll need:

1 lb. fresh ripe tomatoes

4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (the higher the quality, the better)

3-4 cloves garlic, sliced

4 fresh red chili peppers

Fresh basil

1 lb. penne rigate pasta

Salt to taste

 

Chop tomatoes and set aside. Heat large skillet on medium high. Add olive oil, garlic and chili peppers, stirring frequently as they saute. Add tomatoes. Lower heat. Add fresh basil leaves (the more the better -- at least 8 whole leaves). Stir over medium heat for 8-10 minutes. Using a fork, smash tomatoes in skillet. Once smashed, add a few additional basil leaves and remove from heat.

While making your sauce, boil pasta in salted water until cooked al dente. Drain pasta and dish into large bowls. Top with sauce and mix together. Garnish with fresh basil or a little freshly grated parmesan cheese if desired.

Et tu, do you have a favorite Italian recipe to share this Ides of March? Leave the details here, or email me at mmorelli@mainstreetconnect.us.

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