Are you craving a delicious, healthy, and easy vegetarian meal? Look no further! This penne pasta recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend lunch. Packed with fresh vegetables and vibrant flavors, this dish is sure to become a new family favorite. It’s one of those easy recipes that’s both satisfying and surprisingly healthy. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinner game!
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for even the busiest cooks. You probably already have most of them in your pantry!
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions: A Simple Cooking Guide
Follow these simple steps to create a flavorful and satisfying vegetarian penne pasta dish. This is a great recipe for homemade cooking, even if you’re a beginner.
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the cooking water.
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Sauté the Vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic, bell pepper, and zucchini and cook for another 5-7 minutes, until slightly tender-crisp.
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Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), cannellini beans, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Combine and Serve: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the vegetable sauce. Toss to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Stir in the Parmesan cheese (if using).
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Garnish and Enjoy: Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves (if using).
Tips for the Best Penne Pasta: Homemade Cooking Hacks
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta is key for the best texture.
- Taste and adjust seasoning: Add more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your preference.
- Add protein: For a heartier meal, add cooked chickpeas, lentils, or crumbled vegetarian sausage.
- Spice it up: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes for a spicier dish.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of ricotta cheese or a splash of heavy cream for a richer sauce.
Variations: Endless Possibilities for Your Delicious Dishes
This recipe is incredibly versatile! Here are a few variations to try:
- Spinach and Artichoke Penne: Add a cup of frozen spinach and a can of artichoke hearts to the sauce.
- Sun-dried Tomato and Pesto Penne: Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and pesto for a more intense flavor.
- Mushroom Penne: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the other vegetables for an earthy twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 15-20g
- Fiber: Approximately 10-12g
This easy recipe provides a healthy and delicious vegetarian meal perfect for a quick dinner or a satisfying lunch. The combination of fresh vegetables and flavorful herbs creates a truly enjoyable dish that's both satisfying and nutritious. Enjoy!