Penne in Parmesan sauce and fresh tomatoes

Delicious Penne Recipe with Fresh Tomato Sauce and Parmesan

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4

Who doesn’t love a plate of steaming pasta dressed in a delicious tomato and parmesan sauce? This recipe for Penne with fresh tomato sauce and parmesan is not only simple but also full of flavors that will delight your senses. Whether you are a beginner cook or an expert in culinary arts, this recipe will guide you step by step to achieve a perfect result.

Recipe History

Pasta has a rich and diverse history, with deep roots in culinary traditions. Over time, numerous variations have developed, each bringing a unique touch to pasta dishes. This recipe combines tradition with the freshness of ingredients, creating a dish that can be enjoyed at both family dinners and festive meals.

Ingredients

- 5 garlic cloves
- 3 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 large, ripe tomatoes
- 20 grams fresh basil leaves
- 1 carrot
- 3 pieces of parmesan (the hard edges of parmesan pieces that are too tough to grate)
- Salt, to taste
- 450 grams whole wheat penne
- 4 tablespoons butter
- A few cherry tomatoes of different colors, for decoration

Ingredient Details

Garlic is essential for giving a deep flavor to the sauce. Choose fresh garlic cloves with smooth skin and no spots. The olive oil should be extra virgin to add an intense and healthy flavor. The tomatoes should be ripe and meaty; local, seasonal ones will provide the best taste. Fresh basil is preferred as its leaves have an irresistible aroma. The carrot adds a touch of sweetness to the sauce, while the parmesan contributes a salty and umami note.

Step by Step

1. Preparing the garlic: Start by crushing the garlic cloves with the side of a large knife. This will release the essential oils and aromas. Heat the olive oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet or pot over medium-low heat. Add the crushed garlic and sauté for a few minutes until it turns golden and fragrant.

2. Adding the tomatoes: Cut the tomatoes into suitable-sized pieces so they melt nicely into the sauce. Add them to the pot along with their juices. Mix well to combine the ingredients.

3. The carrot and basil: Cut the carrot into quarters lengthwise and add it to the pot, along with the fresh basil leaves and the parmesan pieces. The latter will enrich the sauce with a special flavor.

4. Cooking the sauce: Cook the sauce over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, for 30-40 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened. At the end, add salt to taste. Remove the garlic, carrot pieces, and parmesan bits.

5. Blending the sauce: Use an immersion blender to transform the sauce into a smooth paste. This will create a fine texture that will perfectly coat the pasta.

6. Boiling the pasta: In a separate pot, boil the pasta in salted water according to the package instructions. Ensure the pasta is al dente for an ideal dish.

7. Combining the ingredients: Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and add it to the pot with the blended sauce. Add the butter and pepper, mixing well to combine all the flavors. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little water from the pasta cooking water to adjust its consistency.

8. Serving: Finally, garnish the plates with grated parmesan, sliced cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil leaves. This detail not only enhances the appearance but also adds a fresh note to the dish.

Practical Tips

- Variations: You can add vegetables like zucchini or eggplant to the tomato sauce for a richer and healthier version.
- Proteins: If you want to add a source of protein, you can include grilled chicken breast or sautéed shrimp, which pair perfectly with the tomato sauce.
- Serving: This dish goes wonderfully with a fresh green salad and a glass of dry white wine.
- Storage: If you have leftover sauce, it can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days or frozen for later use.

Nutritional Information

This recipe for Penne with fresh tomato sauce and parmesan is not only delicious but also nutritious. A serving of 200 grams has approximately 480 calories, providing healthy carbohydrates from whole wheat pasta, vitamins and minerals from tomatoes and carrots, as well as protein from parmesan. Olive oil brings healthy fats, and basil adds antioxidants.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes, you can use rice or corn flour pasta for a gluten-free version.

2. How can I make the sauce spicier?
If you like spicy food, add red pepper flakes to the tomato sauce.

3. Can I use canned tomatoes?
Although fresh tomatoes provide better flavor, you can also use canned tomatoes in a pinch.

Try this simple yet delicious recipe for Penne with fresh tomato sauce and parmesan and enjoy every bite! It will not only satisfy your taste buds but also bring a touch of joy to your kitchen. Bon appétit!