Penne With Vegetables
A delicious pasta dish featuring sautéed vegetables, creamy Parmesan sauce, and aromatic Italian seasonings, perfect for a comforting and flavorful vegetarian meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, sauté onions and garlic in olive oil until browned.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add flour and stir to combine.
- Slowly add skim milk and Half & Half, simmering and stirring constantly until thickened.
- Add Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, stirring until cheese melts.
- Stir in the tomato, spinach, and onion mixture, heating through.
- Pour the sauce over the cooked and drained pasta, toss to combine, and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding cooked sausage or grilled chicken to the pasta. If you're looking for a lighter version, substitute the fat-free Half & Half with almond milk or coconut milk. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can enhance the dish's freshness. Make sure to season the vegetables well, as this will elevate the overall taste of the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or garlic bread for a comforting meal. For added texture, consider serving with crispy roasted vegetables or a light tomato basil cream pasta sauce. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top before serving can add a delightful finishing touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of milk to the pasta to help restore the creaminess, and warm gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Penne With Vegetables contains roughly 1154 calories, with 16g protein, 79g carbohydrates, and 86g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (32% of the Daily Value), iron (31% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2610mg per serving (113% 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 pasta instead of regular pasta?
Yes, whole wheat pasta is a great substitute and adds more fiber to the dish. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as whole wheat pasta may require a bit longer to cook. It will also give the dish a nuttier flavor.
What vegetables work best in this recipe?
You can use a variety of vegetables based on your preference and seasonality. Bell peppers, zucchini, and broccoli are excellent choices. Adding spinach or kale at the end can give extra nutrients and color. Feel free to experiment with whatever you have on hand.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge, and combine them when ready to serve. This dish is perfect for meal prep and can save you time during busy weekdays.
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).