Penne with red pesto

Penne with Pesto Rosso - A Quick and Tasty Italian Delight

Penne with Pesto Rosso is a recipe that combines the intense and rich flavors of a tomato sauce with the finest pasta, creating an explosion of tastes that will captivate you. This simple and quick recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a meal with friends. It is also an excellent option for those who want to bring a touch of Italian flavor into their everyday life. Additionally, it is a versatile dish that can be easily adapted based on the ingredients available.

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

Your ingredients:

- 400 g Barilla penne (or any type of pasta you prefer)
- 1 jar of pesto rosso (approximately 190 g, you can choose a high-quality one for a more intense flavor)
- 50 g freshly grated parmesan (plus extra for serving)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil (optional, for an extra flavor)
- Salt (to taste)
- Freshly ground pepper (optional, to add a touch of spice)

Step by step:

1. Preparing the water for pasta: Start by putting a large pot of water and salt on the heat. It is important to add salt, as this will help flavor the pasta during cooking. Wait until the water reaches a boiling point.

2. Boiling the pasta: Once the water is boiling, add the Barilla penne. Boil according to the package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes, until al dente. This means the pasta will be cooked but still have a firm texture.

3. Draining the pasta: After the pasta is ready, drain it in a colander, but do not rinse it with cold water. It is essential to keep the natural starch of the pasta, which will help the sauce adhere better.

4. Heating the sauce: In a large skillet, add the jar of pesto rosso. Heat it over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent sticking. This will bring the flavors to life.

5. Mixing the pasta with the sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet, mixing it with the pesto sauce. Make sure each piece of pasta is evenly coated. Let everything heat for a few minutes, stirring occasionally.

6. Finishing the dish: Grate the parmesan using a small grater and add it to the skillet. Mix well to incorporate. If desired, you can also add a little dried basil for an extra flavor. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Serving: Serve the penne hot, topped with a sprinkle of grated parmesan. For an even more enjoyable culinary experience, pair this dish with a glass of Pinot Noir. The flavors of the wine will perfectly complement those of the pesto sauce.

Practical tips:

- Choose a quality pesto: A good-quality pesto rosso can make a difference. Choose one that has natural ingredients and no preservatives.

- Vegan option: If you prefer a vegan option, you can replace the parmesan with a mix of nuts and nutritional yeast to achieve a similar taste.

- Add vegetables: You can add roasted vegetables, such as eggplant or zucchini, to transform the recipe into an even more nutritious dish.

Nutritional benefits:

Penne with Pesto Rosso offers a good source of complex carbohydrates from the pasta, protein from the parmesan, and antioxidants from the tomatoes. Additionally, the pesto sauce contains olive oil, which is rich in healthy fats. It is a balanced dish, but it is good to be aware of the portions consumed, especially if you are monitoring caloric intake.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use other types of pasta? Absolutely! You can use spaghetti, fusilli, or any other type of pasta you prefer. Cooking time may vary, so check the package instructions.

- How can I store leftovers? If you have leftovers, you can keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or on the stove, adding a little water to prevent drying out.

- What other drinks pair well with this dish? Besides Pinot Noir, you can also serve this dish with a dry white wine or even with a chilled herbal tea for a pleasant contrast.

Penne with Pesto Rosso is not just a recipe, but a true culinary experience. Share this recipe with your loved ones and enjoy the moments spent together at the table, savoring every delicious bite! Every meal is an opportunity to create memories, and this simple and quick recipe will help you do just that. Bon appétit!