Creamy Veggie Penne Pasta in Savory Tomato Sauce

Penne Pasta With Veggies in Tomato Base Recipe

Introduction

Penne Pasta With Veggies in Tomato Base is a delightful fusion of authentic Italian flavors and vibrant, wholesome vegetables. This vegetarian dinner recipe combines the richness of a tomato-based sauce with the goodness of carrots, bell peppers, beans, and black olives. Topped with melted cheese and seasoned to perfection with oregano, chili flakes, and a hint of rosemary, this recipe is perfect for a cozy Italian-inspired dinner night. Paired with refreshing Watermelon Panzanella Salad and decadent Mocha Panna Cotta, this dish will leave your guests asking for seconds!

Recipe Information

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

For the Sauce

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables and Cheese

• Begin by finely chopping the onion, green bell pepper, carrots, and green beans. Slice the black olives. Grate the cheese and set all the ingredients aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

• Heat a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent and fragrant.
• Gradually add the chopped green beans, bell peppers, carrots, and olives. Cook the vegetables until they are ¾ cooked, ensuring they retain a slight crunch for texture.

Step 3: Make the Sauce Base

• Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir continuously. Cook for about 2–3 minutes until the flour is lightly golden and the raw smell disappears.
• Slowly pour in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Let the mixture come to a boil and thicken into a smooth sauce.

Step 4: Add the Tomato Puree and Seasonings

• Stir in the homemade tomato puree and let it simmer for 5 minutes until the rawness of the tomato disappears.
• Season the sauce with salt, white pepper powder, dried oregano, red chili flakes, and a touch of crushed rosemary (if using). Cook for another minute, allowing the flavors to blend.

Step 5: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

• Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss gently to coat it evenly with the sauce.
• Stir in half of the grated cheese and cook for 2 minutes, stirring continuously to ensure the cheese melts into the sauce.

Step 6: Add the Final Touches

• Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top of the pasta and let it melt without stirring for about 2 minutes. This creates a deliciously gooey layer of melted cheese on the dish.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

• Garnish the Penne Pasta With Veggies in Tomato Base with a sprig of rosemary or a light sprinkle of dried oregano.
• Serve hot with a side of refreshing Watermelon Panzanella Salad and creamy Mocha Panna Cotta to create a complete Italian meal experience.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Chef’s Tips for Perfect Pasta

• Boiling the Pasta: Cook the penne pasta al dente (firm to the bite) as it will absorb some sauce while cooking further.
• Homemade Tomato Puree: For a richer taste, make your own tomato puree by blanching, peeling, and blending fresh tomatoes.
• Veggie Options: Feel free to swap or add vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for a personalized twist.
• Cheese: Use a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan for a creamier and slightly tangy flavor.

Enjoy this delectable Penne Pasta With Veggies in Tomato Base as a family favorite or a star dish for your Italian dinner night!