Baked Penne Pasta With Roasted Peppers in Marinara Sauce
Introduction:
Baked Penne Pasta with Roasted Peppers in Marinara Sauce is an irresistible Italian-inspired dish that combines the warmth of oven-baked pasta with the richness of a flavorful tomato sauce. This vegetarian recipe is bursting with the delicious flavors of roasted bell peppers, fragrant garlic, and Italian seasonings like oregano. The dish is ideal for dinner or as a lunchbox option, and it’s a fantastic way to sneak in extra vegetables. Whether you’re cooking for a family meal or a special gathering, this baked penne pasta will become a favorite in your household, pleasing both kids and adults alike.
Cuisine: Italian
Course: Dinner
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Durum Wheat Penne Pasta | 300 grams |
| Tomatoes | 5, chopped |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Dried Oregano | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Garlic | 4 cloves, finely chopped |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Sugar (optional) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Green Bell Pepper (Capsicum) | 1, cut into chunks |
| Red Bell Pepper (Capsicum) | 1, cut into chunks |
| Salt | As required |
| Water | As required |
| Parsley Leaves | 2 stalks, chopped |
| Mozzarella Cheese | 1/4 cup, shredded |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 340 |
| Protein | 10g |
| Carbohydrates | 48g |
| Dietary Fiber | 5g |
| Sugars | 7g |
| Fat | 14g |
| Saturated Fat | 5g |
| Cholesterol | 20mg |
| Sodium | 450mg |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on the ingredients used.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Instructions:
-
Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F) to prepare for the baking process. -
Cook the Penne Pasta:
In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add a generous pinch of salt. Cook the durum wheat penne pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside. -
Prepare the Marinara Sauce:
Heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to let it burn.
Next, add the chopped tomatoes to the pan and cook for 5-7 minutes until they soften and release their juices. Stir occasionally.
Season the sauce with 1/4 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon of red chilli powder, and a pinch of salt. If you prefer a touch of sweetness, you can add the optional 1/2 teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Stir well. -
Roast the Bell Peppers:
While the sauce is simmering, heat a little olive oil in a separate pan. Add the chopped green and red bell peppers (capsicum) and sauté them until they begin to soften and develop a slight char, about 5 minutes. This will bring out the natural sweetness of the peppers. -
Combine the Sauce and Pasta:
Once the marinara sauce has thickened and the bell peppers are roasted, add them to the sauce. Stir to combine, allowing the peppers to infuse their flavor into the sauce. -
Assemble the Dish:
In a baking dish, combine the cooked penne pasta with the marinara sauce and roasted peppers. Toss everything together to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. Sprinkle chopped parsley leaves over the top for a burst of fresh flavor. -
Top with Mozzarella:
Finish off the dish by sprinkling shredded mozzarella cheese generously on top. The mozzarella will melt into the sauce, adding a creamy and cheesy texture. -
Bake:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbling. -
Serve:
Remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes to cool slightly. Serve your delicious baked penne pasta with roasted peppers in marinara sauce, garnished with a little extra chopped parsley if desired.
Tips for the Perfect Baked Penne Pasta:
-
Customizations: Feel free to add other vegetables such as olives, zucchini, or mushrooms to increase the nutritional value of this dish. These additions will complement the flavors of the marinara sauce beautifully.
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Cheese Options: While mozzarella is used here for its meltability, you can also experiment with other cheeses such as Parmesan, Gouda, or a blend of Italian cheeses for a more complex flavor.
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Make It Ahead: This dish can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until you’re ready to bake it. Simply cover the baking dish with foil and bake when you’re ready.
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Add Protein: If you’d like to include protein in this dish, you can add cooked chicken, sausage, or even a plant-based protein such as lentils or chickpeas.
Conclusion:
Baked Penne Pasta with Roasted Peppers in Marinara Sauce is a comforting and versatile dish that brings together the best of Italian cuisine. With its rich tomato sauce, tender pasta, and roasted peppers, it’s a meal that will satisfy every member of the family. Whether served for a weeknight dinner or as part of a special gathering, this baked penne pasta will leave everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy!
