Quick Diavolo Sauce Recipe [spicy, vegan, easy]

This Diavolo Sauce recipe has the fiery and tantalizing flavors of Italy. Bursting with the robust essence of ripe tomatoes, garlic, and a symphony of herbs, this sauce packs a punch with a generous kick of spicy red chili flakes. Perfectly complementing any pasta dish, this spicy sauce promises to ignite your taste buds and transport you straight to the heart of Italian culinary passion.

What is Diavolo Sauce?

Diavolo Sauce, also known as “Sugo alla Diavola” in Italian, is a spicy tomato-based sauce typically used in Italian cuisine, especially with pasta dishes.

The name “Diavolo” translates to “devil” in English, reflecting the sauce’s fiery and bold flavors. It contains ingredients such as tomatoes, garlic, onions, and herbs.  

Red pepper flakes or chili peppers, give it a spicy kick that adds depth and intensity to any dish it accompanies.

What is the difference between Diavolo Sauce and Fra Diavolo Sauce?

The main difference between them lies in their culinary traditions and specific ingredients. While both are spicy tomato-based sauces used in Italian cuisine, Diavolo Sauce tends to be simpler, often consisting of tomatoes, garlic, onions, herbs, and red pepper flakes for heat.

On the other hand, Fra Diavolo Sauce typically includes additional seafood, such as shrimp or shellfish, adding richness and depth to the sauce. It may also incorporate white wine or other spirits, giving it a slightly different flavor profile compared to the straightforward spiciness of Diavolo Sauce. Essentially, Fra Diavolo Sauce is a more elaborate version of Diavolo Sauce, often associated with seafood pasta dishes.

Why is it called fra diavolo

The term “Fra Diavolo” translates to “Brother Devil” in Italian. The origin of the name is not entirely clear, but it’s often associated with a spicy tomato-based sauce used in Italian cuisine, particularly with seafood dishes.

One popular theory suggests that the name “Fra Diavolo” originated from a 19th-century Italian bandit known for his fiery and bold personality. Another theory suggests that it was named after an Italian opera.

Regardless of its origin, “Fra Diavolo” is synonymous with spicy tomato sauces, especially those served with seafood, and it’s commonly used to describe dishes with a fiery kick in Italian-American cuisine.

What ingredients go into this easy Diavolo Sauce?

If you’re looking to make a delicious Diavolo Sauce, here’s a detailed list of all the ingredients you will need:

• 16 oz of crushed tomatoes: This will form the base of the sauce and give it a rich, tangy flavor.
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil: This will help in sautéing the onions, garlic, and red bell pepper to perfection.
• 1/2 cup of chopped onions: These will add a subtle sweetness to the sauce and give it a nice texture.
• 5 cloves of minced garlic: This will add a distinct flavor to the sauce and give it a nice aroma.
• 1 medium-sized red bell pepper, chopped: This will add a nice crunch to the sauce and give it a mild sweetness.
• 1/2 cup of dry white wine: This will help in deglazing the pan and add a subtle yet complex flavor to the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon of chili flakes: This will give the sauce a nice kick and add some heat to it.
• Salt and black pepper to taste: These will help in balancing the flavors and make the sauce taste just right.

By following these instructions and using these ingredients, you can make a delicious Diavolo Sauce that’s perfect for pasta, pizza, or any other dish that requires a spicy tomato sauce.

How to make Diavolo Sauce?

First, heat olive oil in a large skillet or pan. When it is hot, add the chopped onions, bell pepper, and garlic. Reduce to medium-high heat and sauté everything for about 5 minutes.

Next, season with salt and pepper, as well as the chili flakes. Give in the white wine and bring it to a simmer again. Let cook for 5 minutes.

Finally, mix in the crushed tomatoes and cook for 5 more minutes. Whisk in some optional fresh herbs, ready to serve.

How to serve Diavolo Sauce?

Diavolo Sauce is incredibly versatile and you can serve it in various ways:

1. Toss the Diavolo Sauce with your favorite cooked pasta, such as spaghetti, linguine, or penne, for a delicious and spicy pasta dish.
2. Use Diavolo Sauce as a flavorful accompaniment for seafood dishes, such as shrimp, clams, mussels, or calamari. Simply cook the seafood in the sauce and serve over pasta or with crusty bread for dipping.
3. Spread the sauce on pizza dough as a spicy alternative to traditional marinara sauce. Top with cheese, and your favorite toppings, and bake until bubbly and golden for a fiery pizza experience.
4. Use it as a bold marinade or sauce for grilled meats like chicken, pork chops, or steak. Brush the sauce on the meat before grilling or serve it as a dipping sauce on the side.
5. Coat roasted or grilled vegetables with Diavolo Sauce for a spicy and flavorful twist. It adds depth and heat to vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms.

However you choose to serve it, Diavolo Sauce is sure to add a fiery kick and vibrant flavor to your favorite dishes. Adjust the level of spiciness to suit your taste preferences, and enjoy the bold taste of this Italian classic.

 

Other Pasta Sauces to try

• Best Spicy Alfredo Sauce Recipe [easy, vegan]
• Lemon Pasta Sauce
• Easy Vegan Rasta Pasta Recipe with creamy sauce
• Ragu Sauce
• Keto Alfredo Sauce

Share all your thoughts about this easy Diavolo Sauce recipe with a star rating in the comments below, and share it on Instagram and Facebook.

Enjoy, Florian.