Tomato penne pasta
Instructions
Nail the penne texture
Cook the penne pasta al dente for the best texture. Al dente means it is tender yet still firm to the bite. This way, the pasta holds up well against the sauce, absorbing flavours without losing its shape. We recommend generously salting the water while cooking the pasta. It enriches the taste and helps maintain a pleasing bite. Before draining the pasta, reserve a cup of the starchy cooking water that you can add to your sauce to help it cling better to the pasta.
Toasting the pine nuts
Use a dry pan over medium heat, stirring frequently to ensure the pine nuts toast evenly without burning. A golden hue and a slight fragrance indicate they are ready. Sprinkle these over the finished dish just before serving to get the best possible crunch.
Make the arrabbiata tomato sauce from scratch
If you have the time, you can also make the arrabbiata sauce yourself. Begin by gently sautéing finely chopped garlic and onion until soft and golden. Stir in crushed tomatoes and a touch of red chilli flakes, then let the sauce simmer steadily, allowing the flavours to develop fully.
FAQ: Questions about tomato penne pasta
Find answers to the most common questions about this tomato penne pasta to help you enjoy it to the fullest.
Nutritional values
Nutritional value, per
1757 Kcal
| Fibre | 15.2 gram fibers |
| Protein | 57.4 % |
| Carbohydrates | 292 % |
| Fat | 38.2 gram |
Ingredients
|
Penne pasta
|
400 g |
|---|---|
|
Tomato arrabbiata sauce
|
1 tsp |
| 200 g | |
|
Fresh basil
|
|
|
Pine nuts
|
50 g |
Try our quick and easy tomato penne pasta
Discover a deliciously simple way to enjoy classic Italian flavours with our tomato penne pasta recipe. This pasta dish cooks in less than 30 minutes and is an excellent option for both a quick midweek dinner and a more relaxed weekend meal. With just a few key ingredients and minimal fuss, you can create a dish that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.
Rich tomato sauce meets creamy white cheese and pesto
The magic of this pasta lies in how it brings together the bold tang of a spicy tomato sauce and the smooth, rich touch of white cheese with pesto. The arrabbiata sauce is known for its flavoursome use of ripe tomatoes and spicy red chilli flakes. As it simmers, the tomatoes mellow, creating a richer, deeper flavour.
We love it when white cheese, infused with green pesto, melts into the sauce. Its slightly tangy taste and creamy consistency inject a delightful nuance into the bold sauce, offering hints of garlic and fresh herbs from the pesto.
Finish with fresh basil and toasted pine nuts on top
Fresh basil and toasted pine nuts add the finishing touch to take the recipe to the next level. The basil brings a fresh, peppery note, while the toasted pine nuts add a pleasing crunch and a warm, nutty taste.
Lightly toasting the nuts releases their natural oils, giving them a delicate, buttery edge. Sprinkle the basil and nuts over the pasta just before serving to keep them fresh, adding an incredible array of colours to the beautiful meal.
A delicious meal made with a few simple ingredients
What makes this tomato penne pasta truly special is how easily it comes together with just a handful of ingredients. Penne, tomato sauce, white cheese with pesto, and some fresh basil are all you need to create a refined dinner. It is quick and straightforward, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or when you want a homemade dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. By embracing this simple recipe, you can enjoy a fresh and flavourful meal with more time to savour the experience.
You can easily pair this pasta with a few complementary dishes. The light and fluffy pearl couscous salad adds a Mediterranean touch, while roasted winter vegetables provide an earthy contrast. For a zesty, refreshing side, the tomato couscous salad is a great choice. To dip or enjoy alongside, try the soft and herb-infused pesto bread rolls.
Experiment with your favourite flavours
Try something new and experiment with your favourite flavours! For a deeper, savoury note, try sautéing pancetta in olive oil, then add it to the sauce. If you prefer extra heat, thinly slice some fresh red chilli or sprinkle a pinch of chilli flakes into the arrabbiata sauce. Swap out the basil with oregano or thyme to explore more herbaceous nuances.
Consider stirring in a tablespoon of butter while the sauce is simmering, which adds a silky finish and a fuller taste. For a cheesy touch, sprinkle grated Parmesan or mozzarella over the finished pasta and briefly place it in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
If you enjoy more vegetables, you can also include sautéed vegetables like peppers, courgettes, or even roasted aubergines to add a hint of sweetness and a satisfying bite. Or, for a brighter, fresher finish, top the pasta with a handful of chopped cherry tomatoes and a light drizzle of olive oil just before serving.
