Simple Pasta
A simple, flavorful pasta dish with fresh herbs, garlic, Parmesan, and a savory chicken broth base, perfect for a quick, satisfying meal suitable for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring chicken broth to a boil, adding water if needed to cover the pasta.
- Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package directions.
- Chop parsley, garlic, and basil; grate the Parmesan cheese.
- Drain the cooked pasta and place on individual plates.
- Add fresh parsley, garlic, basil, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil to taste.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding sautéed onions or a pinch of red pepper flakes. You can substitute penne with any pasta shape you have on hand. Fresh herbs are ideal, but dried herbs can also work; use about a third of the amount. If you want a creamier texture, stir in a splash of cream or use a bit more Parmesan.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this simple pasta dish with a side of garlic bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Easy Italian Chicken Breasts for a heartier dinner. For a vegetarian option, you can add sautéed vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to the pasta.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent drying out, and heat gently on the stove or in the microwave. This will help maintain the pasta's texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Simple Pasta contains roughly 1080 calories, with 9g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 115g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (73% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (43% of the Daily Value), and potassium (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 774mg 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 vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Yes, you can definitely use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version of this dish. It will still provide a flavorful base for the pasta, allowing the herbs and cheese to shine through.
Is it necessary to add olive oil?
While olive oil is not strictly necessary, it adds a nice richness and helps to coat the pasta and herbs evenly. If you prefer a lighter dish, you can skip the oil or substitute it with a little reserved broth.
How can I make this pasta dish spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic or toss in some diced fresh chili peppers. This will enhance the flavor profile and give it a nice kick without overpowering the dish.
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).