Description
Penne Rosa is a creamy and vibrant pasta dish that combines the heartiness of penne with a luscious marinara and cream sauce, enhanced by fresh vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach. This Italian-American favorite offers a perfect balance of spice and creaminess, making it a comforting yet light meal that’s easy to prepare on the stovetop.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces penne pasta
Sauce & Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 medium zucchini, halved and sliced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- ½ cup heavy cream or Greek yogurt
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Finishing
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and thinly sliced red onion, sautéing for about 2 minutes until fragrant and softened.
- Cook Vegetables: Add the sliced mushrooms and zucchini to the skillet. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender and lightly browned.
- Add Sauce Ingredients: Stir in the red pepper flakes, marinara sauce, and heavy cream or Greek yogurt. Mix well and let the sauce simmer gently for 3 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Combine Pasta and Spinach: Add the cooked penne and fresh baby spinach to the skillet, gently tossing until the spinach wilts and the pasta is evenly coated with the rosa sauce.
- Season and Garnish: Season the dish with salt and black pepper to taste. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top and garnish with chopped fresh basil before serving.
Notes
- For added protein, consider adding grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp.
- Substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version or use dairy-free alternatives to make the dish vegan.
- Penne Rosa can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.
