Savor the bold, spicy flavors of this Whole30 Penne Arrabbiata—a healthy, pasta-free twist on the classic Italian dish. This recipe swaps traditional pasta for tender zucchini spirals, making it gluten-free, grain-free, and perfect for those following a Whole30 or low-carb lifestyle. The rich tomato sauce, infused with golden garlic, a hint of heat from crushed red pepper flakes, and fresh basil, is a symphony of fresh and robust flavors. Quick and easy to prepare in just 45 minutes, this wholesome meal serves four and is ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Whether you’re aiming to eat clean or just craving a lighter take on comfort food, this Whole30 Penne Arrabbiata is a delicious, guilt-free choice!
Begin by preparing the zucchini spirals. If using whole zucchinis, use a spiralizer to create approximately 4 cups of noodles. Set them aside.
Peel and thinly slice the garlic cloves. Set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté until golden brown, about 3 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Add the crushed red pepper flakes to the skillet and stir for about 30 seconds to release their flavor.
Carefully add the canned whole tomatoes to the skillet, breaking them up with a spoon as they cook. If there is a lot of liquid, let it simmer and reduce slightly, about 10 minutes.
Season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Add the zucchini spirals to the skillet and toss them gently in the sauce to coat. Cook for about 3-5 minutes until the zucchini is al dente.
Chop the fresh basil leaves roughly and add them to the skillet, stirring them gently into the sauce.
Serve the Whole30 Penne Arrabbiata immediately, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Calories |
694 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 52.3 g | 67% | |
| Saturated Fat | 9.6 g | 48% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 6.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 16 mg | 5% | |
| Sodium | 3394 mg | 148% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 48.5 g | 18% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 21.3 g | 76% | |
| Total Sugars | 34.8 g | ||
| Protein | 13.5 g | 27% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 380 mg | 29% | |
| Iron | 7.5 mg | 42% | |
| Potassium | 3136 mg | 67% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.