Attack of the Killer Tomato Sauce with Penne

🍅🍝 Attack of the Killer Tomato Sauce with Penne 🍝🍅

Ah, the classic tomato sauce with penne – a beloved dish! Here’s a long and detailed response for you:

What is it?
Attack of the Killer Tomato Sauce with Penne is a delicious Italian-inspired pasta dish that features penne pasta paired with a rich and flavorful tomato sauce. It’s a favorite among pasta enthusiasts for its simplicity and taste.

History:
The origins of tomato sauce with pasta can be traced back to Italy, where pasta has been a staple for centuries. The first recorded recipe for tomato sauce with pasta is often attributed to the famous Italian chef and author Pellegrino Artusi, who included it in his cookbook “Science in the Kitchen and the Art of Eating Well” in the late 19th century. Since then, it has become a quintessential Italian dish and has been embraced by people worldwide.

Components:

1. Penne Pasta: Penne is a type of pasta that is shaped like short, hollow cylinders. It’s a fantastic choice for holding onto the tomato sauce.

2. Tomato Sauce: The tomato sauce is the star of this dish. It’s typically made from ripe tomatoes, garlic, onions, olive oil, and a blend of herbs and spices. You can use canned tomatoes or make your own from fresh tomatoes.

3. Garlic: Garlic adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the sauce. It’s usually minced or sliced.

4. Onions: Onions provide a sweet and savory base for the sauce. They are typically finely chopped.

5. Olive Oil: Olive oil is used for sautéing the onions and garlic and adds a rich, Mediterranean flavor to the sauce.

6. Herbs and Spices: Common herbs and spices include basil, oregano, red pepper flakes (for a bit of heat), salt, and black pepper.

Steps to Prepare:

1. Boil the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until it’s al dente, usually around 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Sauce: In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant.

3. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Add the tomatoes to the pan, crushing them with your hands or using a wooden spoon. Season the sauce with basil, oregano, red pepper flakes (adjust to your spice preference), salt, and black pepper. Simmer the sauce for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Once the sauce has thickened and is well-seasoned, combine it with the cooked penne pasta. Toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.

5. Serve: Serve your Attack of the Killer Tomato Sauce with Penne hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Time Needed:
The preparation and cooking time for this dish typically takes around 30-40 minutes, depending on your cooking skills and whether you’re using fresh or canned tomatoes.

Enjoy your scrumptious meal! 🍝🍅😊

Certainly, here’s the nutrition facts and health information for Attack of the Killer Tomato Sauce with Penne:

Nutrition Facts (Approximate, for 1 serving):

• Calories: 350-400 calories per serving, depending on portion size.
• Protein: About 12-15 grams.
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 70-75 grams.
• Dietary Fiber: 6-8 grams.
• Fat: 5-7 grams.
• Saturated Fat: 1-2 grams.
• Cholesterol: 0 milligrams (if you don’t add cheese).
• Sodium: 400-500 milligrams, depending on salt usage.
• Potassium: 600-700 milligrams.
• Vitamin A: 15-20% of the daily recommended intake.
• Vitamin C: 20-30% of the daily recommended intake.
• Calcium: 2-4% of the daily recommended intake.
• Iron: 10-15% of the daily recommended intake.

Health Information:

1. Low in Saturated Fat: This dish is relatively low in saturated fat, which is beneficial for heart health.

2. Good Source of Fiber: The penne pasta and tomato sauce combination provides a decent amount of dietary fiber, promoting digestive health.

3. Rich in Vitamins: It’s a good source of vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining healthy skin, vision, and a robust immune system.

4. Low in Cholesterol: If you omit the cheese, this dish is cholesterol-free, which is great for those watching their cholesterol intake.

5. Balanced Meal: When served with a side salad or some steamed vegetables, this dish can be part of a well-balanced meal.

6. Sodium Control: To make this dish healthier, you can reduce the sodium content by using low-sodium or no-salt-added canned tomatoes and being mindful of the amount of salt you add during cooking.

Remember that the specific nutrition facts can vary depending on the ingredients and portion sizes you use. It’s also essential to consider your individual dietary needs and goals when enjoying this delicious meal.