Penne Pasta
Indulge in the comforting embrace of penne pasta, a staple of Italian cuisine. Its tube-shaped design is perfect for holding onto sauces, making each bite a burst of flavor. Whether tossed with a rich marinara, a creamy Alfredo, or a simple olive oil dressing, penne pasta offers endless possibilities. This dish not only satisfies your hunger but also invites creativity in the kitchen. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
- 300g penne pasta
- 2 cups sliced mushrooms
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is about 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1/4 of the recipe):
– Calories: 450
– Protein: 12g
– Fat: 25g
– Carbohydrates: 45g
– Fiber: 3g
This nutritional information is based on a single 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 the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook until they are golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Reduce the heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the cream mixture and stir until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Drain the cooked penne and add it to the skillet with the sauce.
- Toss the pasta until fully coated with the creamy sauce.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily substitute the mushrooms with spinach, broccoli, or any other vegetable of your choice. For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or opt for a dairy-free cream alternative for a vegan dish.
Serving and Pairings
Penne pasta pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad, garlic bread, or a side of roasted vegetables. Consider serving it alongside a glass of white wine for a complete dining experience.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or milk to restore creaminess. This dish can be frozen, but the texture may change upon thawing.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta can lead to a mushy texture.
- Not salting the boiling water can result in bland pasta.
- Skipping the garlic can diminish the flavor.
- Using low-quality cheese can affect the sauce’s richness.
- Not reserving some pasta water can make the sauce too thick.
- Rushing the mushroom cooking process can leave them watery.
- Forgetting to taste and adjust seasoning can lead to an unbalanced dish.
Helpful Tips
- Always taste pasta before draining to ensure perfect doneness.
- Reserve some pasta cooking water to adjust sauce consistency.
- Experiment with different sauces and proteins for variety.
- Fresh herbs can elevate the dish’s flavor significantly.
FAQs
What is the best type of sauce for penne pasta?
Penne pasta pairs well with a variety of sauces, including marinara, Alfredo, and pesto. The tube shape holds onto thicker sauces beautifully, making each bite flavorful.
Can I make penne pasta vegan?
Absolutely! Replace the heavy cream with a plant-based cream and omit the cheese or use a vegan alternative. Add more vegetables for flavor and texture.
How do I prevent pasta from sticking together?
To prevent sticking, stir the pasta during the first few minutes of cooking and ensure it’s well-salted. Adding a little olive oil can also help.
Can I use gluten-free penne pasta?
Yes, gluten-free penne pasta is widely available and can be used in this recipe. Just be mindful of cooking times as they may differ from traditional pasta.
How can I add protein to my penne pasta dish?
You can easily add cooked chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a protein boost. Tofu or lentils are great vegetarian options as well.
Conclusion
Penne pasta is more than just a meal; it’s a canvas for creativity in the kitchen. With its delightful texture and adaptability, you can create a variety of dishes that cater to any taste. Whether enjoyed on a weeknight or at a special gathering, this penne pasta recipe is sure to impress and satisfy. Don’t hesitate to explore different sauces and ingredients to make this dish your own.
Penne Pasta
Ingredients
- 300 g penne pasta
- 2 cups sliced mushrooms
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
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 the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Reduce the heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the cream mixture and stir until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Drain the cooked penne and add it to the skillet with the sauce.
- Toss the pasta until fully coated with the creamy sauce.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
