Penne Pasta
Indulge in the savory goodness of penne pasta, an Italian classic that brings comfort and flavor to your table. This dish, featuring perfectly cooked pasta enveloped in a rich sauce, is ideal for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings. With its versatile nature, you can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients, making it a staple in any kitchen. Let’s dive into the details of this mouthwatering recipe!
Ingredients
- 400g penne pasta
- 200ml heavy cream
- 100g grated Parmesan cheese
- 200g mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for heat
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, while cooking time is approximately 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (approximately 200g) contains:
– Calories: 450
– Protein: 12g
– Carbohydrates: 60g
– Fat: 20g
– Fiber: 3g
This nutritional value is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes until tender.
- Reduce heat and pour in the heavy cream, mixing well with the mushrooms.
- Add grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
- Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to taste.
- Drain the cooked penne pasta and add it to the skillet.
- Toss the pasta in the sauce until well coated.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream for a lighter version. For a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth if desired.
Serving and Pairings
Penne pasta pairs wonderfully with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. A light white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, complements the dish beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or cream to the pasta and warm it in a skillet over low heat. This dish can be frozen for up to a month; however, the texture may change slightly upon reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta can make it mushy; always cook al dente.
- Not salting the pasta water can lead to bland pasta.
- Forgetting to stir the sauce can cause it to burn.
- Using pre-grated cheese can result in a less creamy sauce.
- Not letting the sauce simmer long enough to thicken properly.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Experiment with different vegetables for added nutrition.
- Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.
- Try adding cooked protein like chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.
FAQs
What type of pasta is best for penne pasta dishes?
Penne pasta is ideal due to its tubular shape, which holds sauces well. Other similar pasta types include ziti and rigatoni.
Can I make penne pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead and combine it with freshly cooked pasta just before serving for the best texture.
How can I make penne pasta healthier?
You can use whole wheat or gluten-free penne, add more vegetables, and reduce the amount of cream in the sauce.
What sauces pair well with penne pasta?
Penne is versatile and pairs well with marinara, Alfredo, pesto, or a simple olive oil and garlic sauce.
Can I add protein to my penne pasta?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas make excellent additions for added protein and flavor.
Conclusion
Penne pasta is a delightful dish that combines simplicity with rich flavors, making it a favorite in many households. With its versatility and ease of preparation, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with your own variations, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.
Penne Pasta
Ingredients
- 400 g penne pasta
- 200 ml heavy cream
- 100 g grated Parmesan cheese
- 200 g mushrooms sliced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes until tender.
- Reduce heat and pour in the heavy cream, mixing well with the mushrooms.
- Add grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
- Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to taste.
- Drain the cooked penne pasta and add it to the skillet.
- Toss the pasta in the sauce until well coated.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
