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Mozzarella Arrabiata Salsa

This vibrant mozzarella arrabiata salsa offers a refreshing twist on the classic spicy Italian sauce. By combining a smooth, fiery tomato purée with finely chopped fresh tomatoes, you create a rustic texture that celebrates seasonal produce. The heat from the cherry peppers and dried flakes is beautifully balanced by the creamy, mild notes of fresh mozzarella, which softens gently when tossed through the warm pasta.

As a simple vegetarian main course, this dish is perfect for a quick midweek dinner or a relaxed weekend lunch. Using capellini allows the delicate salsa to coat every strand, ensuring a punchy flavour in every mouthful. For the best results, use the ripest vine tomatoes available and high-quality olive oil to enhance the clean, Mediterranean flavours of this homemade favourite.

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Ingredients for Mozzarella Arrabiata Salsa

  • 900g tomatoes, divided

  • 1 fresh hot cherry pepper (optional), stemmed and chopped

  • 1/4 teaspoons hot red pepper flakes

  • 6 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

  • 1 celery rib, finely chopped

  • 450g fresh mozzarella, chopped

  • 2 tablespoons chopped celery leaves

  • Accompaniment: 450g capellini, cooked and drained

How to make Mozzarella Arrabiata Salsa

Halve 450g tomatoes, then purée with cherry pepper (if using), red pepper flakes, oil, and 1/2 teaspoons salt in a blender until smooth.

Finely chop remaining tomatoes and combine with celery and tomato purée in a large bowl.

Toss hot capellini with tomato sauce and mozzarella. Serve sprinkled with celery leaves.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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