Quick & Flavorful Penne Pasta Recipe for Busy Weeknights
When you’re rushing home after a long day, the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. That’s where this delightful penne pasta recipe shines! This dish is not only quick to prepare, but it also bursts with flavor, making it a perfect choice for those busy weeknight dinners. With just a handful of fresh ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create a meal that your whole family will love. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize based on what you have on hand, ensuring that you’ll never get bored of it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: Ready in just 20 minutes!
- Flavorful Ingredients: Combines fresh veggies and savory sauces for a delightful taste.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this satisfying pasta dish.
- Customizable: Easily adjust ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup required, making it perfect for busy nights.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Pasta
- 12 oz penne pasta
- Salt (for boiling water)
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup spinach leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese, grated (for serving)
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Boil the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add the Vegetables: Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for about 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften. Then, add the spinach leaves and dried oregano, cooking until the spinach wilts down, about 2 minutes.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a silky sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired.
Serving Suggestions
This penne pasta recipe is delicious on its own, but you can elevate your meal by serving it with:
- A side salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta.
- Garlic bread or crusty bread for a satisfying crunch.
- Grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.
- A glass of white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, to complement the flavors.
Tips for Success
To ensure your penne pasta turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Use a large pot for boiling the pasta to prevent it from sticking together.
- Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente for the best texture.
- Feel free to experiment with different vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have in your fridge.
- For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Variations
This penne pasta recipe is incredibly adaptable! Here are some ideas to switch it up:
- Protein Additions: Add cooked sausage, grilled chicken, or sautéed shrimp for a heartier meal.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with extra veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
- Vegan Twist: Omit the cheese and use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
- Pesto Version: Stir in some basil pesto for a fresh and vibrant flavor.
Final Thoughts
This penne pasta recipe is a lifesaver for those hectic weeknights when you need something quick yet satisfying. With its fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors, it’s sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. Remember to save this recipe for your next meal prep or dinner inspiration! Enjoy cooking and savoring every bite!
