Easy Penne Pasta Recipes: A Quick Guide to Delicious Meals
Pasta is a beloved staple across the globe, offering endless possibilities for culinary creativity. Penne pasta, with its distinctive quill shape, is particularly versatile, perfectly capturing various sauces and ingredients. This guide unveils simple yet scrumptious penne pasta recipes, perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
Simple Penne with Tomato Sauce
This classic recipe is a cornerstone of pasta cooking, requiring minimal ingredients and time. It's an excellent starting point for exploring the world of penne pasta.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 1 jar (24 ounces) your favorite tomato sauce (marinara, arrabbiata, etc.)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook penne according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Stir in tomato sauce and bring to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add cooked penne to the sauce, tossing gently to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a little pasta water until desired consistency is reached.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil if desired.
Creamy Tomato and Spinach Penne
This recipe elevates the classic tomato sauce with the addition of creamy elements and spinach, creating a more substantial and flavorful dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 1 jar (24 ounces) tomato sauce
- 5 ounces fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook penne according to package directions. Drain, reserving some pasta water.
- While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet. Sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Add tomato sauce and bring to a simmer. Stir in spinach and cook until wilted.
- Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream (or milk) and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add cooked penne and toss to coat. Add pasta water if needed to adjust consistency.
- Serve immediately.
Quick Penne with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes
For a faster, lighter option, this pesto penne recipe is your go-to. The vibrant flavors of pesto and sweet cherry tomatoes create a delightful combination.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 1/2 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook penne according to package directions. Drain.
- While pasta cooks, combine pesto and cherry tomatoes in a large bowl.
- Add cooked penne and toss to coat.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
- Serve immediately.
Tips for Perfect Penne Pasta:
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta is key for optimal texture.
- Reserve pasta water: This starchy water helps create a creamier sauce.
- Use high-quality ingredients: The better your ingredients, the better your pasta will taste.
- Get creative with additions: Experiment with different vegetables, meats, cheeses, and spices to customize your penne pasta dishes.
These easy penne pasta recipes are just a starting point. With a little creativity, you can easily adapt them to your own tastes and preferences. Enjoy!
