Creamy Tomato Basil Penne Rigate

Recipe Introduction: Creamy Tomato Basil Penne Rigate

Fancy a hug in a bowl? Are you craving some proper comfort food? Let’s dive into some creamy tomato basil penne rigate recipes ! This recipe is like your favourite warm jumper on a chilly evening.

Quick Hook: Your Next Weeknight Pasta Easy Dinner is Here!

Honestly, who doesn't love a good pasta easy dinner ? This creamy tomato basil penne rigate is a real winner! The sauce is both rich and fresh.

It will take you straight to an Italian trattoria. The flavour is incredible.

Brief Overview: Italian Comfort, Ready in Minutes

This dish takes inspiration from classic Italian pasta dishes. The sauce for penne pasta is the star. It's easy enough for even the most beginner cook.

It only takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. This recipe makes 4 servings. This makes it a perfect choice for easy dinner recipes for four .

Main Benefits: Healthy, Quick, and Oh-So-Good!

One of the great things about this recipe is it is packed with antioxidants from the tomatoes and basil. It is a solid nutritional boost.

This is also a brilliant recipe for a weeknight pasta recipes . Seriously, it is quicker than ordering takeout! What makes it special? That perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and fresh flavours, all clinging to those lovely ridged garlic penne tubes.

This will absolutely be added to your list of Italian pasta dishes !

Ready to make this magic happen? Next, let's gather our ingredients. We are going to prepare a quick penne rigate meal .

Alright, let's dive into the heart of our Creamy Tomato Basil Penne Rigate recipe! It's all about nailing those ingredients and having the right tools at hand.

This pasta easy dinner will become a staple, trust me. Honestly, even if you're not a natural in the kitchen, this one's a breeze.

Ingredients & Equipment

Main Ingredients

• Penne Rigate Pasta: 1 pound (450g). Look for a good quality brand. The ridges really grab that sauce.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (30ml). Extra virgin for the best flavor.
• Garlic: 2 cloves , minced. Fresh is always best, but jarred will do in a pinch.
• Red Pepper Flakes: 1/2 teaspoon . Adjust to your spice preference. I'm a wimp, so I go easy.
• Crushed Tomatoes: 1 (28 ounce/794g) can . San Marzano tomatoes are chef's kiss if you can find them.
• Heavy Cream: 1/2 cup (120ml). Don't skimp here! It's what makes it creamy.
• Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup (60ml), grated. Plus more for serving! Go for the real stuff, not the pre-grated.
• Fresh Basil: 1/4 cup (15g), chopped. Fresh basil is non-negotiable. It makes all the difference.

Seasoning Notes

For this sauce for penne pasta , we're keeping it simple but impactful. Garlic and red pepper flakes are our aromatic base.

The Parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor, while the basil brings that fresh, summery vibe. A pinch of salt and pepper brings it all together.

Want a quick penne rigate meal ? Use a jarred marinara sauce and amp it up with the cream and basil.

Honestly, I've done it. Don't judge.

Equipment Needed

• Large Pot. For boiling the pasta.
• Large Skillet or Saucepan. This will be used for the sauce.
• Colander. To drain the pasta.

You probably already have all this stuff in your kitchen. If you don't have a colander, a large bowl and a slotted spoon will work.

This is one of those easy dinner recipes for four that anyone can master. This creamy garlic penne is the way to my heart!

Cooking Method: Nailing That Creamy Tomato Basil Penne Rigate

Oh my gosh, who doesn't love a good pasta easy dinner ? Especially when it involves creamy garlic penne ! So, let's get down to it and I will tell you how to cook it perfect, and get on the table some of the best penne rigate recipes .

This ain't rocket science!

Prep Steps: Get Your Ducks in a Row

First things first, let's get organised. This is mise en place , darling. Chop the garlic (2 cloves), measure out the cream (1/2 cup), grate the Parmesan (1/4 cup, plus extra for serving), and chop the basil (1/4 cup).

Honestly, having everything ready saves a ton of time.

Safety reminder: Don't be a hero. Watch your fingers when chopping. You know, the usual drill.

step-by-step: Let's Get Cooking

1. Cook the penne rigate . Get some salted water boiling in a big pot. Chuck in 1 pound of pasta and cook until al dente . This usually takes about 8- 10 minutes .
2. Save some pasta water, about 1 cup, before draining! This is liquid gold, don't waste it!
3. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Pour in the 28 ounce of crushed tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes , stirring occasionally.
5. Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream and 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese. Simmer for another 5 minutes . The sauce for penne pasta should thicken slightly.
6. Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss it all together, adding pasta water as needed. You want a nice, creamy consistency.
7. Stir in the 1/4 cup of fresh basil.
8. Serve immediately! Garnish with extra Parmesan.

Pro Tips: Level Up Your Pasta Game

Want to impress your mates? Here's a few expert techniques or shortcuts .

Don't overcook the pasta. Al dente is crucial. It should have a slight bite. Also, you can adapt this recipe to create an italian pasta dishes .

Common mistake? Burning the garlic. Keep the heat medium and watch it like a hawk! If you are looking for Easy Dinner Recipes For Four you can scale it properly for more people.

make-ahead option? Simmer the tomato basil pasta recipe sauce earlier in the day. Keep it in the fridge, then just cook the pasta when you are ready to eat.

Perfect for those weeknight pasta recipes when you are short on time. It also works as a quick penne rigate meal in a pinch, just throw everything in!

So there you have it! A creamy tomato basil penne rigate recipe that's sure to become a family favorite. Time to get cooking!

Recipe Notes for the Perfect Penne Rigate

Alright, let's chat about making this creamy tomato basil penne rigate even better. These are my little secrets. They can really take your weeknight pasta recipes to the next level.

Honestly, it’s the small stuff that makes a huge difference.

Serving Suggestions: Make it Look Good, Make it Taste Better

First off, presentation matters. A simple trick? Swirl your pasta easy dinner onto a plate. Then top with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh basil.

Boom! Instant restaurant vibes. For sides, think garlic bread. A sauce for penne pasta is amazing when soaked into some garlic bread.

Also a fresh green salad balances the richness of the italian pasta dishes . A chilled glass of Pinot Grigio? Chef's kiss .

Storage Tips: Keep the Good Times Rolling

Got leftovers? Lucky you. Pop your quick penne rigate meal in an airtight container. It will stay happy in the fridge for up to three days.

Freezing? Maybe not the best idea. The cream might get a bit weird. If you do freeze, try to eat it within a month.

To reheat, just microwave it or gently warm it in a pan with a splash of milk. This will stop it drying out.

Nobody likes dry pasta.

Variations: Make it Your Own

Want to mix things up? Go for it! For a veggie boost, chuck in some roasted veggies. Bell peppers and courgettes work a charm.

Making it dairy-free? Use cashew cream instead of heavy cream. It's surprisingly lush. Looking for a spicier kick? Add more red pepper flakes! It's like a hug, but with a bit of fire.

This tomato basil pasta recipe is so versatile. So why not try changing the pasta for different textures. It adds a completely different dimension, creating a new and exciting dish.

Nutrition Basics: Fuel Your Body with Flavour

This is a hearty meal, clocking in around 550 calories a serving. You also get a good dose of protein, carbs, and healthy fats.

The tomatoes give you Vitamin C. The basil adds antioxidants. It is delicious and keeps you healthy. Not bad, eh? For a lighter meal, use less cream and more veggies.

Honestly, these penne pasta recipes easy are all about experimenting and having fun. Don't be afraid to tweak things. After all, cooking should be a joy, not a chore.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, or creating an easy dinner recipes for four , Just remember to season, taste, and enjoy the process.

You got this!

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is penne rigate, and why is it so good with creamy sauces?

Penne rigate is a type of pasta shaped like short tubes with ridges on the outside. Those ridges are the magic! They grab onto sauces beautifully, especially creamy ones like the tomato basil sauce in this recipe, ensuring every bite is packed with flavour. Think of them as sauce hugging champions!

Can I make this creamy tomato basil penne rigate recipe ahead of time?

While this dish is best served fresh, you can prep some components in advance. The tomato sauce can be made a day or two ahead and stored in the fridge. Then, when you're ready to eat, just cook the penne rigate and toss it all together. Storing the sauce separate from the pasta is the key.

I'm not a huge fan of spice. How can I adjust the heat in this penne rigate recipes?

No problem at all! The red pepper flakes are totally optional. Start with just a pinch, or leave them out altogether if you prefer a milder flavor. You can always add a little more at the end if you want a subtle kick. Think Goldilocks, just the right amount!

What are some good variations I can try to spice up this penne rigate dish?

Loads of options! Try adding some sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra veggies. For a protein boost, toss in cooked chicken, Italian sausage, or shrimp. A splash of vodka to the sauce gives it a delicious, sophisticated edge, or pesto in place of basil adds an amazing nutty taste!

How should I store leftover creamy tomato basil penne rigate, and how long will it last?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay good for about 3-4 days. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce, as it tends to thicken up in the fridge. Nobody wants a pasta brick!

Is there a way to make this creamy tomato basil penne rigate healthier?

Absolutely! You could use whole wheat penne rigate for added fiber. Also, consider using light cream or half and-half instead of heavy cream to cut down on fat. You can also load up on the vegetables to increase the nutritional value, just like your mum always told you!