Penne Panzanella

Penne Panzanella: A Delicious and Savory Combination

If you're looking for a recipe that combines the flavor of pasta with the freshness of vegetables, Penne Panzanella is the perfect choice. This recipe is not only simple but also quick, ideal for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. I invite you to discover how to transform ordinary ingredients into a refined dish, full of flavor and color.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 300 g penne
- 400 g chicken breast (diced)
- 200 g cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 100 g green or black olives (sliced or whole, pitted)
- 150 ml plant-based cream
- 100 g mozzarella (grated)
- 50 g parmesan (grated)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- A handful of fresh basil leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste

Step 1: Preparing the penne
Put water in a large pot to boil. Add a teaspoon of salt and, once the water is boiling, add the penne. Cook according to the package instructions, usually about 10-12 minutes, until al dente. When ready, drain and set aside.

Step 2: Preparing the chicken breast
Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium heat, adding the two tablespoons of olive oil. When the oil is hot, add the diced chicken breast. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and well cooked. Ensure they are cooked evenly without burning.

Step 3: Adding the vegetables
Once the chicken is nearly done, add the cherry tomatoes and olives to the skillet. If you choose whole olives, make sure they are pitted. Continue cooking the mixture for 2 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften slightly and release their flavorful juices.

Step 4: Combining the ingredients
Add the plant-based cream to the skillet, mixing well to combine all the flavors. Then, add the cooked penne and stir everything to ensure the pasta is completely coated with the creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Finalizing the dish
Before serving, add the grated mozzarella and mix again. Leave the dish on the heat for 1-2 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt slightly and integrate into the sauce. Finally, add the grated parmesan and chopped basil leaves, stirring gently to distribute evenly.

Serving and presentation suggestions
Penne Panzanella is ideal served hot, but can also be delicious at room temperature. You can garnish each serving with a few fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor. This recipe pairs perfectly with a dry white wine or fresh lemonade.

Useful tips:
- If you want to enhance the recipe, you can add vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers, which pair perfectly with the existing flavors.
- Substitute the chicken breast with tofu or mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
- For an even bolder flavor, add some Kalamata olives or capers.

Nutritional benefits:
This recipe offers a good balance of protein from the chicken breast, carbohydrates from the penne, and healthy fats from the olive oil. Cherry tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, and basil adds not only flavor but also essential nutrients.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Of course! Any type of short pasta will work, but penne is ideal due to its shape that holds the sauce.
2. How can I make the recipe easier?
You can prepare all the ingredients in advance and mix them quickly before serving.
3. What other recipes can I try?
If you enjoy this dish, I recommend trying the traditional Panzanella salad or a vegetable risotto.

I hope you enjoy this Penne Panzanella recipe! It is a perfect combination of flavors, textures, and colors that will pamper you and make you want to come back to it again and again. Enjoy your meal!