Spaghetti with Fra Diavolo Sauce
Spaghetti with Fra Diavolo Sauce is a classic Italian-American pasta dish known for its bold, spicy flavors and robust, tomato-based sauce. The term "Fra Diavolo" translates to "Brother Devil" in Italian, a nod to the fiery kick that defines this recipe's distinctive personality.
Originally developed in the Italian immigrant communities of the United States, this sauce often features crushed red pepper flakes and garlic, making it a favorite for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their meals.
While its true origins remain a subject of culinary debate, Spaghetti with Fra Diavolo Sauce has become a beloved staple in Italian restaurants and home kitchens alike.
The sauce can be prepared with or without seafood, but its hallmark is always a perfect balance between the tangy sweetness of tomatoes and the warmth of chili. A perfect weeknight dinner, this dish delivers comfort and sophistication in every bite.
For more about the history and cultural roots of Italian-American pasta sauces, visit this well-researched article by Eater: https://www.eater.com/2016/2/10/10951016/italian-american-food-history. Whether you’re new to spicy pasta or a longtime fan, Spaghetti with Fra Diavolo Sauce is sure to impress your family and guests.
This detailed recipe guide will walk you through every step to achieve restaurant-quality results right at home.
Ingredients for Spaghetti with Fra Diavolo Sauce
- 12 oz (340 g) dried spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1 can (28 oz/800 g) crushed tomatoes
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
- Optional: 8 oz (225 g) cooked shrimp or calamari
- Optional: Extra red pepper flakes for garnish
Instructions for Making Spaghetti with Fra Diavolo Sauce
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until al dente, according to the package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and diced onion, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and the onion turns translucent.
- Stir in the crushed red pepper flakes and dried oregano, toasting them for about 30 seconds to release their flavors.
- Add the tomato paste and continue cooking for another minute, stirring constantly.
- Pour in the dry white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits at the bottom. Let it simmer for 2 minutes until slightly reduced.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir well, reduce the heat to low, and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- If using seafood, add the cooked shrimp or calamari in the last 5 minutes of simmering to heat through.
- Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the chopped basil and parsley.
- Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to achieve your desired sauce consistency.
- Serve immediately in warm bowls, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of extra red pepper flakes if desired.
Nutritional Information
Spaghetti with Fra Diavolo Sauce is a satisfying dish that balances carbohydrates, protein, and nutrient-rich ingredients. A typical serving of this recipe (without seafood) contains approximately 420 calories, 12 grams of fat, 70 grams of carbohydrates, 10 grams of fiber, 14 grams of protein, and 7 grams of sugar.
The olive oil and fresh herbs provide beneficial monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, while the tomatoes are rich in vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene—a plant compound known for its anti-inflammatory effects. Adding seafood such as shrimp can boost the protein content and introduce omega-3 fatty acids.
This meal is relatively low in saturated fat and can be made even healthier by choosing whole-wheat spaghetti.
To find more detailed nutritional information about pasta dishes, visit the USDA FoodData Central: https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html. Since sodium and fat levels can vary depending on your choice of cheese and tomato products, be mindful of portion size and ingredient selection to fit your dietary needs.
For those watching their calorie intake, reducing the amount of cheese and oil, or incorporating more veggies, can help tailor the meal toward specific nutritional goals.
Wine/Beverage Pairings With Spaghetti with Fra Diavolo Sauce
The robust and spicy flavors of Spaghetti with Fra Diavolo Sauce pair exceptionally well with Italian red wines that can stand up to the heat without overwhelming the palate.
Consider serving this dish with a Chianti Classico or a Sangiovese—both wines offer fruit-forward notes and enough acidity to cut through the rich tomato sauce. For white wine lovers, a crisp, dry Pinot Grigio complements the spice and garlic.
If you prefer beer, choose a refreshing Pilsner or a light lager to contrast the sauce's heat. For non-alcoholic options, top-quality sparkling water with a slice of lemon or a homemade Italian soda can keep your palate refreshed.
Cooking Tips and Variations
Achieving authentic Spaghetti with Fra Diavolo Sauce is all about balancing heat and savoriness. Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your tolerance for spice; start with half a teaspoon for mild heat and go up to a full teaspoon or more for a bolder flavor.
For a more complex sauce, consider substituting half the crushed tomatoes with diced fire-roasted tomatoes. If you prefer a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to puree it before adding the pasta. Seafood is a traditional addition, and shrimp or calamari cook quickly and complement the sauce beautifully.
For a vegetarian version, omit the seafood and add sautéed mushrooms or roasted eggplant. Vegan diners can simply leave out the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a non-dairy alternative. Using high-quality olive oil and fresh garlic makes a noticeable difference in flavor.
Don't skip the step of toasting spices and garlic in oil, as this deeply enhances the sauce's aroma. Always save some pasta water to thin the sauce as needed; the starch helps bind the sauce to the spaghetti. For gluten-free diets, substitute your preferred gluten-free spaghetti.
Serving Suggestions
For a memorable dining experience, serve Spaghetti with Fra Diavolo Sauce family-style in a large, warmed platter. Sprinkle a generous handful of freshly grated Parmesan and extra herbs over the top for color and aroma. Accompany the pasta with crusty Italian bread—perfect for savoring any leftover sauce on your plate.
If you're hosting a dinner party, add a bright side salad of arugula and shaved fennel with a citrus vinaigrette to balance the meal's richness. Roasted or grilled vegetables, such as zucchini, red peppers, and eggplant, make excellent accompaniments for added nutrition and flavor.
If seafood is included, arrange the shrimp or calamari attractively on top of the pasta to highlight the feature ingredient. Offer small bowls of extra crushed red pepper and Parmesan at the table so guests can season to taste.
To complete the meal, serve a light dessert such as lemon sorbet or biscotti with espresso. This approach not only enhances the enjoyment of Spaghetti with Fra Diavolo Sauce but also channels the warmth and conviviality typical of an Italian trattoria at home.
Spaghetti with Fra Diavolo Sauce Health Benefits
Spaghetti with Fra Diavolo Sauce offers several health benefits as part of a balanced diet. The primary ingredient, tomatoes, provides an excellent source of lycopene, an antioxidant linked to heart health and reduced inflammation. Garlic and onions contribute immune-boosting compounds and can aid digestion.
Fresh herbs like basil and parsley bring not only flavor but also phytonutrients that support cardiovascular health. For those incorporating seafood, shrimp and calamari are both lean protein sources and offer valuable minerals like selenium and iodine. Olive oil, used in moderation, delivers healthy monounsaturated fats beneficial for cholesterol control.
Choosing whole-wheat spaghetti adds dietary fiber to promote a feeling of fullness and support digestive function.
For more on the health effects of Mediterranean-style pasta dishes, explore this Mayo Clinic article: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/heart-disease/in-depth/mediterranean-diet/art-20047801. Spaghetti with Fra Diavolo Sauce is adaptable for vegetarian and vegan diets and can easily fit into most wellness lifestyles by tweaking the ingredients to suit personal needs.
FAQs About Spaghetti with Fra Diavolo Sauce
Can I make Spaghetti with Fra Diavolo Sauce less spicy?
Absolutely! You can reduce the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to half or a quarter teaspoon, or omit them entirely to make the sauce milder. Adjust to your preferred heat level.
What proteins work best with Spaghetti with Fra Diavolo Sauce?
Shrimp is a classic addition, as are other seafood like calamari or mussels. For a land-based protein, grilled chicken can also work well, or you can keep it vegetarian by adding sautéed mushrooms.
How long does leftover Spaghetti with Fra Diavolo Sauce keep?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the pasta and sauce together on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if necessary.
Can I freeze Fra Diavolo Sauce?
Yes! The sauce (without pasta or seafood) freezes very well. Let it cool completely, transfer to a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
Is Spaghetti with Fra Diavolo Sauce suitable for vegans?
To make this recipe vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with a vegan cheese alternative. You can also skip any seafood additions.
Spaghetti with Fra Diavolo Sauce showcases the vibrancy and spice of Italian-American cuisine, bringing together simple ingredients in a symphony of bold flavors. Its versatility allows you to customize spice levels and protein choices to suit any palate, making it ideal for both weeknight family dinners and elegant entertaining. The recipe’s quick preparation and depth of taste highlight why it’s a go-to dish for pasta lovers everywhere. Try making Spaghetti with Fra Diavolo Sauce at home and experience the warmth, excitement, and satisfaction of this beloved pasta classic.
Ingredients
- 12 oz (340 g) dried spaghetti
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
Instructions
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1Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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2While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
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3Stir in the crushed tomatoes, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook uncovered for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
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4Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss well to coat the pasta with the sauce. Stir in the chopped fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese.
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5Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil, if desired.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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