Penne with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce and Broccoli Recipe
Delight in this comforting Italian-inspired dish, perfect for any occasion. Penne with a creamy pumpkin sauce, paired with sautéed broccoli, is a nutritious, flavorful meal that can be enjoyed by the whole family. The smooth, rich sauce blends perfectly with the al-dente pasta, and the broccoli adds a touch of freshness and crunch. Whether you are looking for a satisfying vegetarian dinner or simply want to indulge in a seasonal treat, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Broccoli | 500 grams |
| Penne Pasta | 500 grams |
| Pumpkin Pasta Sauce | 2 cups |
| Fresh Basil Leaves | A few |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black Pepper | To taste |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | For cooking |
| Italian Seasoning | For garnish |
Nutritional Information
(Per serving, approximately)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 400 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 70 grams |
| Protein | 10 grams |
| Fat | 10 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 1.5 grams |
| Fiber | 8 grams |
| Sugar | 6 grams |
| Sodium | 400 mg |
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 60 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Italian
Course: Main Course
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
-
Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook it until al-dente, or firm to the bite (about 8–10 minutes). Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil to prevent it from sticking together. Set aside. -
Prepare the Creamy Pumpkin Sauce
While the pasta is cooking, prepare the creamy pumpkin pasta sauce. You can use a store-bought pumpkin sauce or make it from scratch (see recipe link for homemade creamy pumpkin sauce). Once your sauce is ready, set it aside for the next step. -
Sauté the Broccoli
Heat a teaspoon of olive oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli florets, sprinkle with a pinch of salt, and stir-fry for about 5–7 minutes. The broccoli should turn a bright green color and be lightly steamed, with a slight crunch remaining. Once done, transfer the broccoli to a serving bowl and set aside. -
Combine Pasta and Sauce
In the same wok or skillet, heat another teaspoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the cooked penne pasta and the creamy pumpkin sauce. Stir well to coat the pasta with the sauce, cooking for another 2–3 minutes. The pasta should be thoroughly coated and heated through. -
Serve
To serve, spoon the creamy pumpkin pasta into individual bowls. Add a portion of sautéed broccoli on the side of each serving. Garnish with a few fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning for an aromatic finish. -
Pair and Enjoy
For a complete meal, serve the Penne with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce and Broccoli alongside a fresh Summer Lettuce Salad and crispy Eggless Pinwheels Bread. The balance of flavors and textures will elevate this dish, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or special gathering.
Pro Tips
- Vegan Option: Substitute the pumpkin sauce with a dairy-free cream or coconut milk for a vegan-friendly twist.
- Pasta Variety: You can use other types of pasta, such as rigatoni or fusilli, if you prefer a different shape.
- Make Ahead: The creamy pumpkin sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before combining with the pasta.
This Penne with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce and Broccoli recipe brings together the best of autumn flavors in a satisfying, hearty dish. With the smooth texture of pumpkin and the vibrant crunch of broccoli, this recipe is a great way to enjoy a healthy, vegetarian meal with minimal effort.
