If you're looking for a tasty pasta sauce option, Arrabbiata sauce might be what you need. With only 100 calories in a 1/2 cup (113 g) serving, it is a healthier choice than traditional pasta sauces. This spicy sauce originates from the Lazio region of Italy and is popular in many Italian restaurants around the world.
Arrabbiata sauce is made from a blend of tomatoes, garlic, and red chili flakes. Some recipes may also include additional ingredients like onions, basil, and oregano. It is a great way to add flavor and heat to your pasta dish without adding too many calories.
In this article, we'll explore what Arrabbiata sauce is, its ingredients, nutritional facts, serving size, benefits, and how to make it at home. We'll also explore some of the best brands to buy and how to store it properly.
What is Arrabbiata Sauce?
Arrabbiata sauce is a spicy tomato-based pasta sauce that originated in Italy. The name Arrabbiata translates to 'angry' in English, likely due to the spice level of the sauce. It is made from a blend of tomatoes, garlic, red chili flakes, and other herbs and spices. It is a popular sauce option for those who like their pasta dishes with a bit of heat. The sauce is typically sautéed in olive oil and can be used with just about any pasta noodle. It can also be used as a dipping sauce for bread, appetizers, or even as a pizza sauce. One of the benefits of Arrabbiata sauce is that it is a healthier pasta sauce option. It is low in calories compared to other sauces like Alfredo or carbonara, and the spice level can help to curb your appetite, leading to a lower calorie intake overall. The heat can also help to open up your sinuses, making it a great choice during cold and flu season.
Arrabbiata Sauce Ingredients
The ingredients for Arrabbiata sauce vary depending on the recipe, but typically include the following:
- Canned tomatoes
- Garlic
- Red chili flakes
- Olive oil
- Basil (optional)
- Oregano (optional)
- Onions (optional)
These ingredients are blended together to create a spicy tomato-based sauce that can be used with your favorite pasta dishes or as a dipping sauce.
Calories in Arrabbiata Sauce
A 1/2 cup (113 g) serving of Arrabbiata sauce typically contains around 100 calories. The calorie count may vary depending on the recipe and brand, so it's important to check the label if you're trying to stay within a certain calorie range. Compared to other pasta sauces like Alfredo or carbonara, Arrabbiata sauce is a healthier option as it is lower in calories and fat. It is also a good source of lycopene, an antioxidant found in tomatoes.
Macronutrients in Arrabbiata Sauce
In addition to being low in calories, Arrabbiata sauce is also low in fat and cholesterol. Here are the macronutrient counts per 1/2 cup (113 g) serving:
- Calories: 100
- Protein: 2 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fat: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Arrabbiata sauce is also a good source of vitamins A and C and contains small amounts of iron and calcium.
Arrabbiata Sauce Serving Size
A typical serving size for Arrabbiata sauce is 1/2 cup (113 g). This amount can vary depending on your specific dietary needs or recipe. When using Arrabbiata sauce as a pasta topping, aim for 1/4 to 1/2 cup per serving. It's important to remember that portion control is key when it comes to managing your calorie intake. While Arrabbiata sauce is a healthier pasta sauce option, consuming large amounts can still lead to weight gain.
Benefits of Arrabbiata Sauce
Arrabbiata sauce offers a number of health benefits. Here are some of the key benefits:
- Low in calories
- Low in fat and cholesterol
- Contains lycopene, an antioxidant found in tomatoes
- Spiciness can help to curb appetite and aid in weight loss
- Can be used with a variety of pasta dishes or as a dipping sauce
Arrabbiata sauce is a great choice for those who want to add flavor and heat to their meals without consuming too many calories or unhealthy fats.
Easy Arrabbiata Sauce Recipe
Making your own Arrabbiata sauce at home is easy and can be done with just a few simple ingredients. Here is a basic recipe to try:
- 28 oz. canned, whole peeled tomatoes
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp. red pepper flakes
- 2 tbsp. olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
To make the sauce, combine all ingredients in a blender and process until smooth. Heat the sauce in a pan with olive oil until warmed through. Serve and enjoy!
Arrabbiata Sauce Pairings
Arrabbiata sauce pairs well with a variety of pasta dishes, and can also be used as a dipping sauce for bread or appetizers. Here are some ideas for how to use Arrabbiata sauce in your cooking:
- Toss it with spaghetti or linguine
- Use it as a sauce for baked ziti or lasagna
- Spread it on a pizza crust as a pizza sauce
- Use it as a dip for garlic bread or mozzarella sticks
Arrabbiata Sauce Brands
There are many brands of Arrabbiata sauce available at your local grocery store or online. Here are some of the best brands to try:
- Rao's Arrabbiata Sauce
- Sacla Arrabbiata Sauce
- Francesco Rinaldi Arrabbiata Sauce
- Barilla Arrabbiata Sauce
- Bertolli Arrabbiata Sauce
When choosing a brand, be sure to check the label for calorie count and ingredients to ensure that you are getting a healthier sauce option.
Buying and Storing Arrabbiata Sauce
When buying Arrabbiata sauce, look for brands that are made with natural ingredients and are low in calories and fat. It is also important to check the expiration date and to store the sauce properly. Once opened, Arrabbiata sauce should be kept in the refrigerator and used within 5-7 days. You can also freeze the sauce for up to 3 months for future use. When freezing, be sure to use an airtight container or freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.
Arrabbiata sauce is a great choice for those who want to add flavor and heat to their meals without consuming too many calories or unhealthy fats.
5 FAQ About Arrabbiata Sauce
1. What is Arrabbiata Sauce?
Arrabbiata sauce is a spicy Italian sauce made with tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes. It's often served with pasta but can also be used as a dipping sauce or for cooking meats and vegetables.
2. How many calories are in 1/2 cup (113 g) of Arrabbiata Sauce?
There are 100 calories in 1/2 cup (113 g) of Arrabbiata sauce.
3. Is Arrabbiata Sauce spicy?
Yes, Arrabbiata sauce is typically spicy due to the red pepper flakes used in its preparation. However, the level of spiciness can vary depending on the recipe and the amount of red pepper flakes used.
4. Is Arrabbiata Sauce vegan?
Arrabbiata sauce can be vegan, depending on the brand and recipe used. Generally speaking, the sauce is made with vegan ingredients like tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil. However, some recipes might use animal products like cheese or meat. It's important to check the ingredients list to ensure that the sauce is vegan.
5. How can I use Arrabbiata Sauce in my cooking?
Arrabbiata sauce is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas for using Arrabbiata sauce in your cooking:
- Toss it with pasta for a spicy and flavorful meal.
- Use it as a dipping sauce for bread or vegetables.
- Spread it on a pizza crust instead of traditional tomato sauce.
- Use it as a marinade or basting sauce for grilled meats or vegetables.