Penne pasta recipe/how to make delicious penne pasta recipe.

parmesan cheese

🥗Healthier: nutritional yeast

💰Cheaper: grated pecorino

Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor with fewer calories.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Canola oil is more affordable while still being suitable for cooking.

spinach

🥗Healthier: kale

💰Cheaper: frozen spinach

Frozen spinach is often cheaper and retains nutrients.

zucchini

🥗Healthier: yellow squash

💰Cheaper: cucumbers

Cucumbers can add crunch at a lower cost.

Boil salted water in a large pot.

Add penne pasta to boiling water and cook until al dente, about 10-12 minutes.

Drain pasta, reserving a cup of pasta water.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.

Add minced garlic and chopped onion; sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Stir in crushed tomatoes and bring to a simmer.

Add salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.

Incorporate chopped vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and bell pepper; cook until tender, 5-7 minutes.

Add cooked penne pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine.

If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time.

Stir in fresh basil and adjust seasoning as needed.

Serve hot, topped with grated parmesan cheese.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens