Penne Pasta
A vibrant and satisfying penne pasta dish featuring a rich tomato and balsamic sauce, infused with fresh garlic and basil. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, it combines tangy, savory flavors and is topped with Parmesan for added depth.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta in boiling water until al dente, then drain.
- In a skillet, combine diced tomatoes, minced garlic, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and sliced basil. Simmer the mixture for several minutes.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine with the sauce.
- Serve topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavors, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or substituting fresh basil with parsley if unavailable. For a heartier dish, you can mix in sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. If you prefer a creamier sauce, a splash of heavy cream can transform this dish into a delightful variation. This recipe can also serve as a base for Italian recipes like Emergency Lasagna.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Penne Pasta dish with a side of garlic bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Italian Cheese Sticks as an appetizer. For a more filling option, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp on top. A sprinkle of additional fresh basil can brighten the dish just before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or extra olive oil to prevent the pasta from drying out. Heat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Penne Pasta contains roughly 456 calories, with 15g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (121% of the Daily Value), calcium (40% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 671mg per serving (29% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole wheat penne pasta instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat penne pasta is a great alternative that adds more fiber and a nutty flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as whole wheat pasta may take a bit longer to reach the al dente texture.
What can I substitute for balsamic vinegar?
If you don't have balsamic vinegar, you can use red wine vinegar mixed with a touch of honey for sweetness. Alternatively, apple cider vinegar can work well, but it will impart a slightly different flavor profile.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this Penne Pasta recipe is excellent for meal prep! It holds up well in the fridge and can be easily reheated. Just remember to store the pasta and sauce separately to maintain texture, and consider adding fresh herbs just before serving for a pop of flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).