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A simple yet elegant pasta dish where tender penne is tossed in a fragrant garlic-infused olive oil sauce with a vibrant mix of fresh herbs and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this classic comes together in under 30 minutes.
Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add 2 tablespoons of salt, then add the penne pasta. Cook according to package directions until al dente (firm to the bite). Before draining, carefully reserve about 1.5 cups of the starchy pasta water.
While the pasta cooks, heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook gently for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant and turns a pale golden color. Do not let it brown or it will become bitter.
Drain the cooked pasta and immediately transfer it to the skillet with the garlic-infused oil. Turn the heat to low.
Add the chopped fresh parsley, fresh basil, 0.75 tsp salt, and freshly ground black pepper to the skillet. Toss everything together for about 30 seconds to coat the pasta evenly.
Pour in 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water and add the 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Toss the pasta continuously and vigorously for 1-2 minutes. The starchy water will emulsify with the oil and cheese, creating a light, creamy sauce that clings to the pasta.
Check the consistency. If the pasta seems too dry, add more reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the desired sauciness. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
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A simple yet elegant pasta dish where tender penne is tossed in a fragrant garlic-infused olive oil sauce with a vibrant mix of fresh herbs and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this classic comes together in under 30 minutes.
This italian_american recipe takes 25 minutes to prepare and yields 4 servings. At 359.25 calories per serving with 10.3g of protein, it's a beginner-friendly recipe perfect for lunch or dinner.
Serve immediately in warm bowls, garnished with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Add grilled chicken strips, sautéed shrimp, or a can of drained chickpeas for extra protein. Stir them in at the end until heated through.
Toss in some sautéed spinach, halved cherry tomatoes, roasted broccoli, or sun-dried tomatoes for added nutrients and color.
Add the zest and juice of half a lemon at the very end of cooking for a bright, fresh flavor that cuts through the richness.
For a richer sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese along with the Parmesan.
Extra virgin olive oil is a primary ingredient, providing monounsaturated fats which are known to support cardiovascular health by helping to reduce bad cholesterol levels.
Garlic is a potent source of allicin, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and potential immune-boosting properties.
The penne pasta provides complex carbohydrates, which are the body's primary source of fuel, offering sustained energy for daily activities.
One serving of this Garlic and Herb Penne Pasta contains approximately 585 calories. This can vary based on the exact ingredients and portion size.
This dish can be part of a balanced diet. It features heart-healthy olive oil and antioxidant-rich garlic. To enhance its nutritional value, consider using whole wheat pasta for added fiber and incorporating plenty of vegetables. As with any pasta dish, portion control is important.
Yes, you can substitute dried herbs, but the flavor profile will be different. The general rule is to use one-third the amount of dried herbs as you would fresh. For this recipe, use about 1.5 to 2 teaspoons each of dried parsley and basil. Add them to the oil with the garlic to help them rehydrate and release their flavor.
If the sauce seems too dry, simply add more of the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, while tossing until it reaches your desired consistency. If the sauce is too thin, continue to toss the pasta over low heat for another minute; the starch from the pasta will help thicken the sauce as it emulsifies.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or olive oil and toss until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until hot.