Penne Provencale
A flavorful Mediterranean pasta dish featuring fresh tomatoes, olives, and herbs, perfect for cozy family dinners or entertaining guests with bold, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook penne in boiling water with 1 teaspoon salt and 1 tablespoon olive oil until al dente.
- Saute chopped onion, chopped garlic, and chopped green pepper in olive oil until tender.
- Add chopped tomatoes to the sautéed vegetables and cook until tender.
- Combine the cooked tomato mixture with the drained pasta.
- Add sautéed mushrooms, black Greek olives, and canned tuna in oil (if using) to the pasta mixture.
- Sprinkle bread crumbs and grated Gruyère cheese on top.
- Dribble with olive oil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider roasting the tomatoes before adding them to the sautéed vegetables. If you don't have Gruyère cheese, a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan can work well. For a vegan version, omit the cheese and tuna and add more vegetables. Fresh basil can also enhance the dish's flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is perfect on its own but can be elevated with a side of Dilled Potatoes Vinaigrette or a fresh salad. Pair it with a light white wine for an elegant touch. For a more substantial meal, serve with crusty bread or Rosemary Breadsticks to soak up the delicious sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Penne Provencale can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Penne Provencale contains roughly 942 calories, with 46g protein, 121g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (395% of the Daily Value), protein (92% of the Daily Value), and calcium (52% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 777mg per serving (34% 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 other types of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, other short pasta shapes like fusilli or rigatoni can be substituted for penne. Just ensure you adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type to achieve al dente texture.
Is it necessary to use canned tuna?
No, the tuna is optional. If you prefer a vegetarian version, simply omit it and consider adding extra vegetables or chickpeas for protein.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything up to the baking step a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if starting from cold.
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).