Baked Penne Rigate with Broccoli

Oven-Baked Penne Rigate with Broccoli

Welcome to my kitchen, where today we will embark on a delicious and healthy recipe: Oven-Baked Penne Rigate with Broccoli! This recipe is perfect for a quick yet elegant dinner, combining the savory taste of pasta with the nutritional benefits of broccoli. I will guide you step by step to achieve a perfect result, and at the end, you will also discover some interesting variations and serving suggestions.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 200 g penne pasta
- 1 small broccoli (approximately 300 g)
- 1 large carrot
- 100 g diced ham (or bacon)
- 50 g grated cheese
- 4 eggs
- 1 tablespoon jarred red bell pepper (optional, for extra color and flavor)
- 1 tablespoon sour cream
- Oil for greasing the baking dish
- Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe history:

Pasta with broccoli is a recipe that has become popular due to its versatility. It offers a perfect combination of healthy carbohydrates from the pasta and vitamins from the vegetables. This baked dish adds extra flavor and a crunchy texture, making it ideal for family meals as well as festive occasions.

Preparation technique:

1. Boiling the pasta:
Start by bringing water to a boil in a large pot. Add a teaspoon of salt, then add the penne pasta. Cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8 and 10 minutes, until al dente. Once cooked, drain and let cool.

2. Preparing the broccoli:
Meanwhile, prepare the broccoli. Break it into small florets, then boil in salted water for 3-4 minutes until tender but not mushy. Drain and let cool.

3. Boiling the carrot:
Peel the carrot and boil it whole in salted water for 8-10 minutes. Once cooled, grate it. This will add not only a sweet flavor but also vibrant color to your dish.

4. Mixing the ingredients:
In a large bowl, beat the eggs with a fork, then add the sour cream and 2-3 tablespoons of the pasta cooking water. Mix well. This mixture will help bind the ingredients and create a creamy texture.

5. Adding the ingredients:
In the bowl with the egg mixture, add the cooked pasta, broccoli florets, grated carrot, and diced ham. If desired, you can add the red bell pepper for extra color and flavor. Gently mix, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated with the egg mixture. Adjust the taste with salt and pepper.

6. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a baking dish with oil and pour in the pasta and vegetable mixture, smoothing it out. You can sprinkle the grated cheese on top for a golden and crispy crust. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the egg mixture is set and has a golden hue.

Serving:

Once the dish is ready, let it cool for a few minutes before cutting into portions. You can serve it warm alongside a fresh salad or a portion of tomato sauce for a delicious contrast. A bottle of dry white wine can perfectly complement this meal.

Practical tips:

- Ensure the broccoli is cooked al dente so it doesn’t break down during baking.
- You can replace the ham with cooked chicken or tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Add spices like oregano or basil for extra flavor.
- If you like crispy crusts, you can sprinkle breadcrumbs on top before baking.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use whole wheat pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a healthy option and will add a pleasant texture.

2. What other vegetables can I add?
You can experiment with zucchini, spinach, or even mushrooms to vary the recipe.

3. How can I make the recipe lighter?
Replace the sour cream with Greek yogurt and use less cheese.

4. How many calories does a serving have?
A serving contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

5. Can it be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze portions of Oven-Baked Penne Rigate with Broccoli. Make sure to let them cool completely before placing them in airtight containers.

Oven-Baked Penne Rigate with Broccoli is a recipe that combines health with taste, perfect for any occasion! Whether you prepare it for a family dinner or serve it at a meal with friends, it will surely impress. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your loved ones and let us know how it turned out! Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 1 small broccoli 1 carrot 200 g penne pasta 100 g diced ham 50 g grated cheese 4 eggs 1 tablespoon jarred red pepper 1 tablespoon sour cream oil salt, pepper

 Tags:  penne paste pasta with broccoli delaco