Penne with vegetables and Provençal sauce

Penne with Vegetables and Provencal Sauce – A Vibrant and Healthy Recipe

When it comes to preparing a delicious, quick, and healthy meal, the Penne with Vegetables and Provencal Sauce recipe proves to be an excellent choice. This recipe not only combines the wonderful flavors of fresh vegetables with the aromatic sauce but also offers an explosion of colors on the plate. It is perfect for a family dinner or to impress friends at a festive meal. And don’t forget: it’s a simple recipe, ideal for anyone who wants to bring a touch of good taste without spending hours in the kitchen.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients

- 300 g penne Hutton (from a 500 g bag)
- 1 small zucchini
- 2 carrots
- 1/2 bell pepper
- 3 green onions
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 450 g Provencal sauce (a tomato sauce full of vegetables)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh green basil (for garnish)
- Aromatic dried spices and herbs (for serving)

A bit of history

Provencal sauce, with its origins in Mediterranean cuisine, is a delightful combination of tomatoes and vegetables, enriched with subtle herbal flavors. This recipe reflects the Mediterranean philosophy of using fresh, healthy ingredients, emphasizing taste and health. It is not just a meal, but a celebration of nature's bounty!

Step-by-step preparation

1. Boil the pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. When the water starts to boil, add a pinch of salt and the penne. Boil according to the package instructions (about 10-12 minutes) until al dente. Then, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold running water to stop the cooking process.

2. Prepare the vegetables: Peel and wash all the vegetables. Slice the onion into thin rings, chop the bell pepper into small cubes, dice the zucchini, and slice the carrots thinly. Make sure the vegetables are cut evenly for uniform cooking.

3. Sauté the vegetables: In a wok or large skillet, add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil and heat over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 1-2 minutes until translucent. Then, add the bell pepper, zucchini, and carrots. Sauté the vegetables for 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally. The goal is to keep them slightly crunchy, so don’t let them soften too much.

4. Add the Provencal sauce: Once the vegetables have softened, pour the Provencal sauce over them. Mix well and season with salt and pepper to taste. I recommend tasting the sauce before adding salt, as the sauce already contains spices.

5. Combine the pasta with the sauce: After the sauce has simmered for about 5 minutes, add the drained pasta to the wok. Carefully mix everything, ensuring that each piece of pasta is coated with the delicious sauce.

6. Serving: Serve the pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil, and if desired, aromatic dried herbs for an extra flavor boost.

Practical tips for a perfect result

- Choose fresh ingredients: Use fresh, seasonal vegetables for the best flavors.
- Provencal sauce: If you can’t find Provencal sauce, you can create one at home by mixing crushed tomatoes with garlic, onion, basil, oregano, and a bit of olive oil.
- Variations: You can also add other vegetables, like zucchini or mushrooms, depending on your preferences. Additionally, adding feta cheese or grated parmesan can provide extra flavor and texture.
- Frequently asked questions:
- *Can I use whole grain pasta?* Yes, whole grain pasta is an excellent choice for a healthier option.
- *How can I store leftovers?* You can keep the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Nutritional benefits

This recipe is rich in vitamins and minerals due to the fresh vegetables. Additionally, whole grain pasta provides essential fiber for healthy digestion. Each serving contains approximately 400-500 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

Serving ideas

Penne with vegetables and Provencal sauce pairs perfectly with a glass of white wine, but also with fresh lemonade on warm summer days. Additionally, a green salad with lemon dressing and olive oil can complement this delicious meal.

Enhance your meals with this simple, quick, and flavorful recipe! Surely, Penne with Vegetables and Provencal Sauce will become a favorite at your table. Cooking is an art, and each recipe is an opportunity to explore new flavors and combinations. So, put on your apron, prepare your ingredients, and enjoy an unforgettable culinary experience!

 Ingredients: 300 g Hutton penne (the bag is 500 g) 1 small zucchini 2 carrots 1/2 bell pepper 3 green onions 2 tablespoons olive oil 450 g Provençal sauce salt and pepper to taste fresh basil assorted aromatic herbs for serving