This penne arrabbiata is all about the heat! Pasta is tossed in a light tomato basil sauce that packs some serious kick to make this fiery Italian-inspired meal.
Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
Add the pasta and cook it according to the package directions.
Drain the pasta into a colander. Return it to the pot and toss with a dash of olive oil.
While the pasta cooks, coat the bottom of a large pot with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and place it over medium heat.
When the oil is hot, add the garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until very fragrant.
Stir in the tomatoes, tomato paste, red pepper flakes and sugar.
Raise the heat and bring the mixture to a boil.
Lower the heat and allow it to simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Remove the pot from heat and stir in the basil, salt and pepper. Season with additional red pepper flakes if you like.
Either pour the sauce over the pasta and toss, or divide the pasta onto plates and then top with sauce. Sprinkle with additional fresh basil if you like. Serve.