Craving a comforting and delicious Italian dinner that's quick to prepare? Look no further than this simple yet satisfying recipe for Penne with Marinara Sauce. This classic dish is a weeknight staple, perfect for busy families or anyone who appreciates the art of uncomplicated, flavorful food. Forget complicated techniques and lengthy ingredient lists; this recipe uses readily available pantry staples to create a meal that's both satisfying and surprisingly elegant. The vibrant red sauce clings perfectly to the perfectly cooked penne pasta, creating a harmony of textures and tastes that will delight your senses.
We've crafted this recipe with ease and speed in mind, prioritizing fresh ingredients and straightforward instructions. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, you'll find this recipe surprisingly accessible. Ready to transform simple ingredients into a mouthwatering meal? Let's dive into the step-by-step process and create some delicious Penne with Marinara Sauce!
Tools Needed
- Cooker
- Bowl
- Kettle
Ingredients
- Olive oil
- Garlic: 4 cloves
- Shaved Parmesan: 500 grams
- Fresh penne pasta: 500 grams
- Fresh basil: a handful
- Peeled plum tomatoes (canned): 1 can (400 grams)
- Medium onion: 1
- Vine-ripened tomatoes: 6
- Sugar
- Salt
- Black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Marinara Sauce
- Dice the onion finely.
- Remove the skins from the vine-ripened tomatoes by blanching them in boiling water. Then, remove seeds.
- Peel and finely chop the garlic.
- Heat olive oil in a cooker on low heat. Add the onions and garlic, and cook for about 5 minutes until translucent. Add salt to draw out moisture. Do not brown.
- Add the vine-ripened tomatoes and canned tomatoes. Stir and simmer for about 15 minutes.
- Season with black pepper, salt, and half a tablespoon of sugar. Add basil leaves and stir.
- Cook pasta according to package directions. In the last few minutes of cooking, add shaved Parmesan to the sauce.
Step 2. Cook the Pasta
- Cook pasta according to package directions. In the last few minutes of cooking, add shaved Parmesan to the sauce.
Step 3. Combine Sauce and Pasta
- Toss cooked pasta with the sauce (add more sauce if desired).
Step 4. Serve and Garnish
- Serve the pasta, topped with chicken (optional), more Parmesan cheese, and fresh basil.
Read more: Easy Basil Pesto Pasta: Simple, Cheap, & Delicious Recipe
Tips
- Use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
- The amount of garlic, Parmesan, and sugar is adjustable to your preference.
- Use penne pasta with grooves to better hold the sauce.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use different pasta shapes instead of penne?
Absolutely! Use any short pasta shape you prefer, like rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle.
2. How can I make this marinara sauce spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce while it simmers. You can also use a spicier type of tomato.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! The sauce can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving with the pasta.
This simple Penne with Marinara Sauce recipe is a testament to the fact that delicious meals don't need to be complicated. Enjoy this comforting classic, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends and family. Buon appetito!