Penne rigate with vegetables
Penne rigati with vegetables – a recipe full of color and flavors
Who doesn’t love pasta? It’s a universal dish, beloved all over the world, that can be adapted to various ingredients and flavors. In this recipe, we will prepare penne rigati with vegetables, a delicious and healthy combination, perfect for any meal. This recipe is simple, quick, and ideal for vegans or anyone looking to add more vegetables to their diet. Let’s get started!
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 400 g penne rigati
- 4 ripe tomatoes
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red or yellow for vibrant color)
- 1 medium carrot
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 1 medium onion
- 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or canned)
- salt to taste
- pepper to taste
- fresh or dried basil, to taste
- 50 g butter
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
Preparation:
1. Start by cooking the pasta. Boil a large pot of water and add salt (about a tablespoon). When the water is boiling, add the penne rigati and cook according to the package instructions, usually between 10 and 12 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
2. While the pasta is boiling, prepare the vegetables. In another pot, boil the peas and corn in salted water for 5-7 minutes. This step will bring out the natural sweetness of the vegetables. Once cooked, drain them and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
3. The next step is to prepare the sauce. Blanch the tomatoes in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then remove the skin. Chop the tomatoes into large pieces and place them in a blender along with the bell pepper, sliced carrot, and garlic. Blend everything until you achieve a smooth paste.
4. In a non-stick skillet, add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil and sauté the finely chopped onion over medium heat. Sautéing the onion will add a deep flavor to the sauce. When the onion becomes translucent, add the tomato paste prepared earlier. Simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and becomes more concentrated.
5. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and basil to taste. You can use fresh basil for a stronger flavor or dried basil for added aroma during cooking.
6. When the pasta is ready, drain it well and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Then, add the tomato sauce over the pasta and mix well, ensuring each penne is coated with the delicious sauce.
7. In a separate skillet, add the butter and let it melt over low heat. Add the cooked peas and corn, gently stirring to coat them with butter. This step will add a rich flavor and creamy texture to the dish.
8. Serve the pasta on plates, garnishing with the buttered vegetables on top. Enjoy your meal!
Practical Tips:
- For an even more intense flavor, you can sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top of the pasta before serving.
- If you want a spicy version, add chili flakes to the tomato sauce.
- You can substitute penne rigati with other types of pasta, such as fusilli or farfalle, depending on your preferences.
Nutritional Benefits:
This recipe is high in fiber due to the vegetables, and whole grain pasta, if you choose that option, provides a good source of complex carbohydrates. Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C and antioxidants, while peas and corn contribute plant-based proteins and essential vitamins.
Serving Combinations:
These penne rigati with vegetables pair perfectly with a fresh green salad or arugula and Parmesan salad. For a drink, a dry white wine or a cold herbal tea will complement the meal perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables are an excellent option and can be used directly without thawing beforehand.
2. How can I make this recipe more protein-rich?
Add cubed tofu or cooked chicken breast to increase the protein content.
3. Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the pasta and the vegetable sauce ahead of time and combine them before serving. Just make sure to heat them well.
4. What is the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can reheat in the microwave or in a skillet.
5. Can I add other vegetables?
Of course! Zucchini, eggplant, or mushrooms are excellent additions and can bring a different texture to the dish.
This penne rigati with vegetables recipe is not only easy to prepare but also very versatile. Try it and enjoy every bite! You can experiment with various ingredients and spices to create your unique version. Cooking is an art, and after all, every meal is an opportunity to add a story to your plate. Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients: 400 g penne rigati, 4 tomatoes, 1 bell pepper, 1 carrot, 2 garlic cloves, 1 onion, salt, pepper, basil, 1 cup peas, 1 cup corn kernels, 50 g butter
