Penne Primavera

Authentic Penne Primavera Recipe from Italy with Marinara Sauce and Parmesan Cheese

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Penne Primavera is a delicious and colorful pasta dish that is packed with fresh vegetables and a flavorful marinara sauce. This dish is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal that the whole family will love.

History

Penne Primavera is a classic Italian pasta dish that translates to "spring pasta" in English. It is traditionally made with a variety of fresh spring vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, and spinach, along with a light and flavorful marinara sauce. This dish is a celebration of the fresh produce that is available in the springtime.

Ingredients

8 oz (227 g) of Dreamfield's® penne rigate
1 tbsp of extra virgin olive oil
0.25 cup of chopped red onion
0.5 cup of chopped broccoli florets
0.5 cup of chopped carrot
0.5 cup of chopped yellow bell pepper
2 tbsp of chopped fresh basil
1 package (10 oz (283 g)) of fresh spinach, coarsely chopped
0.5 tsp of garlic salt
0.13 tsp of red pepper flakes
1.5 cup of marinara sauce
0.25 cup of grated parmesan cheese

How to prepare

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sauté onion, broccoli, carrots, bell pepper, and basil until soft, about 5 minutes.
Add spinach, garlic salt, hot pepper flakes, and marinara sauce; reduce heat to medium and simmer for 15 minutes.
Prepare pasta according to package directions; drain well.
Toss pasta with sauce mixture and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.

Variations

Add some grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option.
Mix in some sun-dried tomatoes or olives for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to chop your vegetables into uniform sizes so that they cook evenly.

- Don't overcook the vegetables; you want them to be tender-crisp for the best texture.

- Feel free to customize this dish with your favorite vegetables or add some protein, such as grilled chicken or shrimp.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Penne Primavera with a side salad and some crusty bread for a complete meal. You can also top it with some fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, for an extra burst of flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the vegetables until they are tender-crisp for the best texture.

- Simmer the sauce for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to swap out the vegetables for your favorites, such as zucchini, mushrooms, or asparagus.

- You can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as spaghetti or fettuccine.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat it on the stove and toss it with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish Penne Primavera with some fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Penne Primavera with a light and crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, for a perfect match.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

300

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 45g

- Dietary Fiber: 6g

- Sugars: 7g

Fats

- Total Fat: 7g

- Saturated Fat: 2g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 10g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 80%

- Vitamin C: 90%

- Calcium: 15%

- Iron: 20%

Alergens

Contains dairy (Parmesan cheese)

Summary

Penne Primavera is a nutritious and well-balanced meal that is rich in vitamins and minerals. It is a great way to get your daily dose of vegetables in a delicious and satisfying way.

Summary

Penne Primavera is a delicious and nutritious pasta dish that is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. Packed with fresh vegetables and a flavorful marinara sauce, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a moth to a flame. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her cozy little cottage nestled in the countryside. Maria was always a wonderful cook, and I loved spending time in her kitchen, watching her create delicious meals with such ease and grace.

On that particular day, Maria was preparing a dish called Penne Primavera. The aroma of garlic and fresh herbs filled the air, and my mouth watered in anticipation. I watched as she chopped colorful vegetables – bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes – and sautéed them in olive oil until they were tender and fragrant.

As she mixed in cooked penne pasta and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, I knew I had to learn how to make this dish myself. Maria noticed my interest and smiled knowingly. "I'll teach you the recipe, my dear," she said, handing me a pen and paper to jot down the ingredients and instructions.

Over the years, I have made Penne Primavera countless times, each time tweaking the recipe to suit my own tastes and preferences. But the essence of the dish – the vibrant colors, the fresh flavors, the comforting warmth – has always remained the same.

My love for cooking and collecting recipes started at a young age. I grew up in a small village where food was a central part of our culture and traditions. My mother and grandmother were both excellent cooks, and I spent many hours watching and learning from them in the kitchen.

As I got older, I began to explore different cuisines and cooking techniques. I would borrow cookbooks from the local library, attend cooking classes whenever I could, and seek out opportunities to learn from experienced chefs and home cooks.

One of the things I love most about cooking is the way it brings people together. Whether it's a simple family meal or a festive gathering with friends, there is something magical about sharing a homemade dish with loved ones.

My collection of recipes is a reflection of my culinary journey – a mix of traditional family favorites, exotic dishes from far-off lands, and everything in between. Each recipe tells a story, a memory of where I learned it and who I shared it with.

And so, the recipe for Penne Primavera holds a special place in my heart. It reminds me of lazy summer days spent in Maria's kitchen, of the simple joy of cooking and sharing a delicious meal with a dear friend.

As I sit down to enjoy a steaming bowl of Penne Primavera, I am filled with gratitude for all the wonderful people and experiences that have shaped my love for cooking. And I can't help but smile, knowing that the tradition will continue as I pass on this cherished recipe to the next generation. The flame of culinary passion burns bright in my heart, and I am forever grateful for the joy and connection that food brings into my life.