Giada Calabrian Chile Pasta

This spicy Giada Calabrian Chile Pasta takes 1 hour and 30 minutes to prepare and is made with Calabrian chile peppers, garlic, olive oil, spaghetti, shallots, red pepper flakes, salt, black pepper, and Pecorino Romano cheese. A dinner, it’s both comforting and easy to make. Serve warm for a crowd-pleasing finish.

Recipe Ingredients

1 pound penne
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
1 pint cherry tomatoes, quartered
½ cup diced roasted piquillo peppers
3 tablespoons Calabrian hot pepper paste
⅓ cup chopped fresh chives
1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice (from 1 lemon)
⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil

How To Make Giada Calabrian Chile Pasta

Cook the Pasta

Cook Penne: Add the penne and salt to a large pot of boiling water. Cook, stirring often, until the pasta is al dente, about 9 minutes.

Prepare the Sauce

Combine Ingredients: Add the cherry tomatoes, piquillo peppers, hot pepper paste, chives, lemon zest, lemon juice, and olive oil to a bowl. Mix to combine.
Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked penne to the sauce and mix to combine. Serve immediately.

Recipe Tips

Ingredient Substitution: For a dairy-free version, replace the heavy cream with coconut milk, which adds a subtle sweetness and maintains the creamy texture while making the dish suitable for those with lactose intolerance.
Make Ahead: Prepare this dish up to 24 hours in advance and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore the original consistency.
Spice Up the Heat: For an extra kick, add more Calabrian chilies or substitute with hot sauce like sriracha to elevate the spice level and balance the richness of the heavy cream and pasta.
Add Fresh Flavors: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or basil to add bright, refreshing notes and contrast the spicy and savory elements, ultimately enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Customize for Company: To make this recipe more substantial for a dinner party, add cooked chicken, shrimp, or sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms to create a heartier, satisfying dish.

Recipe FAQs and Variations

Do I need to rinse the penne after cooking?

No, just drain the penne and add it to the sauce to preserve the starch and ensure the sauce coats the pasta evenly.

Can I substitute the Pecorino Romano cheese with another type?

Yes, you can use Parmesan or Asiago cheese as a substitute, but Pecorino Romano is recommended for its unique flavor.

What’s the best way to store leftover pasta?

Let the pasta cool completely, then refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the sauce up to a day in advance, but add the lemon juice just before serving to preserve its flavor and brightness.

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