Penne with bell peppers and mozzarella

Penne with Peppers and Mozzarella

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

I present to you a delicious and simple recipe, perfect for a family dinner or a meal with friends: penne with peppers and mozzarella. This recipe is not only tasty but also vibrant, full of colors and flavors that will delight your senses.

Penne, a type of tubular pasta, is ideal for holding sauces and flavors, and the combination of sweet peppers with creamy mozzarella makes this dish a true feast. Over time, pasta has evolved and diversified, becoming a staple ingredient in many culinary cultures around the world. Whether you enjoy it with rich sauces or alongside fresh vegetables, pasta is a symbol of conviviality and family meals.

Ingredients:
- 350 g penne
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (or sunflower oil, if you prefer)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, or green, according to preference), sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 2 cloves of garlic, crushed
- 500 g mozzarella, sliced thin
- 30 g grated parmesan, for serving
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preparing the pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Don’t forget to add a generous amount of salt to enhance the pasta's flavor. When the water is boiling, add the penne and cook according to the package instructions, usually between 10 to 12 minutes, until al dente. Once cooked, drain and return to the pot.

2. Sauté the vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Add the sliced peppers and continue to sauté for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the peppers are soft and slightly caramelized.

3. Season: Incorporate the basil, crushed garlic, salt, and pepper into the skillet. Let everything sauté together for 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. The garlic will add a pleasant aromatic note, while the basil will provide a distinctive freshness.

4. Combine the ingredients: Add the sliced mozzarella over the cooked penne and gently mix, covering the pot with a lid. Let it sit for 2 minutes so that the mozzarella melts slightly and integrates with the pasta.

5. Finalize the dish: Add the sautéed pepper mixture over the pasta, stirring well to ensure an even distribution of ingredients. Finally, sprinkle the grated parmesan on top for added flavor.

6. Serving: Serve the penne with peppers and mozzarella warm, topped with extra parmesan if desired. You can add a few fresh basil leaves for an elegant appearance and fresh taste.

Helpful tips:
- You can vary the vegetables by adding zucchini, eggplant, or even broccoli, depending on your preferences.
- If you like a more intense flavor, you can add chili flakes or chili oil for a bit of heat.
- This recipe is also great cold, so feel free to turn it into a pasta salad for warm summer days!
- If you don’t have mozzarella, you can use feta cheese or goat cheese for a saltier option.

Nutritional information:
This recipe is rich in carbohydrates, providing the energy needed for an active day. Mozzarella brings a healthy supply of protein and calcium, while the vegetables contribute essential vitamins and fiber. Each serving has approximately 450-500 calories, depending on the exact ingredients used.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use whole grain pasta? Absolutely! Whole grain pasta is a healthier choice, adding extra fiber.
- What type of oil is best for sautéing? Extra virgin olive oil is ideal for cooking, but you can also use other oils with a higher smoke point.
- What can I do with leftovers? You can store leftovers in the fridge and reheat them the next day, or transform them into a vegetable omelet.

This penne with peppers and mozzarella recipe will not only satisfy your pasta cravings but also bring a touch of joy to every meal. Cook with love and savor every bite with your loved ones!