The aroma of freshly cooked penne pasta wafts through the air, tantalizing your senses with its promise of flavor and comfort. As you twirl those perfectly shaped tubes on your fork, you can’t help but smile, knowing that every bite will be a delightful explosion of taste.
Penne pasta recipes are not just meals; they’re experiences filled with laughter and joy. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a spontaneous gathering with friends, this dish brings everyone together. pasta salad with black beans Imagine the laughter echoing around the table as you share stories and savor each delicious forkful. crispy potato salad recipe chickpea salad with Mediterranean flavors
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This penne pasta recipe is a breeze to prepare, making weeknight dinners stress-free
- With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s sure to impress anyone at your table
- The beautiful presentation makes it perfect for special occasions or a casual lunch
- Plus, you can easily customize it based on your favorite ingredients!
I remember the first time I served penne pasta to my friends; their reactions were priceless as they devoured every last bite.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Penne Pasta: Choose high-quality pasta for the best texture; look for bronze-cut varieties for extra sauce adherence.
- Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for a rich flavor that enhances the overall dish.
- Fresh Garlic: Mince fresh garlic cloves for a robust aroma and flavor that elevate any pasta dish.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Select ripe cherry tomatoes for sweetness and juiciness; they burst beautifully when cooked. For more inspiration, check out this Ricotta Tomato Toast recipe.
- Spinach: Fresh spinach adds vibrant color and nutrition; look for bright green leaves without wilting.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh parmesan cheese right before serving for maximum flavor and creaminess.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all flavors; adjust according to taste preferences.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Boil the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente; usually about 11-13 minutes.
Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil until shimmering. Toss in minced garlic, cooking until fragrant—about 1 minute.
Add Tomatoes and Spinach: Stir in halved cherry tomatoes and fresh spinach into the skillet. Cook until tomatoes soften slightly and spinach wilts down—around 3-4 minutes.
Toss with Pasta: Drain the cooked penne pasta, reserving some pasta water. orzo with roasted vegetables Add it directly into the skillet with vegetables, tossing gently to combine flavors thoroughly.
Add Cheese and Seasonings: Sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese over the mixture while adding salt and pepper to taste. If needed, incorporate reserved pasta water to achieve desired creaminess.
Serve Hot!: Plate your penne pasta masterpiece while hot, garnished with additional parmesan if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy those satisfied smiles around your table!
Now that you’ve made this incredible penne pasta recipe, why not take a moment to revel in your culinary achievement? Each bite will remind you of why food brings us together—flavorful memories crafted in every forkful!
You Must Know
- This delightful penne pasta recipe is not just about taste; it’s a canvas for your culinary creativity
- The aroma of garlic and herbs fills the kitchen, making it feel like an Italian trattoria
- Plus, it’s quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling your salted water before adding the penne. Cook according to package directions, usually about 11-13 minutes. While the pasta cooks, sauté garlic and onions until fragrant, then add your sauce of choice for a harmonious blend.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out standard ingredients! Add veggies like spinach or zucchini, try different cheeses, or toss in some protein like grilled chicken or shrimp for a hearty dish that’s uniquely yours. For more inspiration, check out this Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken recipe.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover penne pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of water to keep it moist and microwave or heat on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly al dente pasta, cook just until tender but still firm to the bite
- Avoid overcooking; nobody wants mushy pasta!
- Also, save some pasta water before draining—it can enhance your sauce’s consistency beautifully
- Remember to taste as you go!
Cooking this penne pasta recipe reminds me of family gatherings where laughter mingles with the delicious aromas wafting from the kitchen. It’s always a hit!
FAQ
Can I use whole wheat penne pasta recipes?
Absolutely! Whole wheat adds fiber and a nuttier flavor while maintaining that classic penne shape.
What sauces pair well with penne pasta recipes?
Penne loves marinara, Alfredo, pesto, or even a simple olive oil and garlic sauce.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Definitely! Just load up on vegetables and replace meat with plant-based proteins for a tasty vegetarian option.
Penne Pasta
Penne pasta is a delightful and versatile dish that brings warmth to any table. With its perfectly cooked tubes enveloped in a rich sauce, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also customizable to cater to your taste preferences. Whether you’re hosting a cozy family dinner or enjoying a quick weeknight meal, this penne pasta will impress with its vibrant flavors and satisfying textures.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Boil salted water in a large pot and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions (11-13 minutes) until al dente.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once shimmering, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in halved cherry tomatoes and fresh spinach, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes soften and spinach wilts.
- Drain the cooked pasta, reserving some of the pasta water. Add the penne to the skillet and toss gently with the vegetables.
- Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the mixture and season with salt and pepper. If needed, add reserved pasta water for desired creaminess.
- Serve immediately while hot, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (about 220g)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
