Penne alla Crudaiola: A Refreshing Summer Pasta Dish
Category: First Courses
Serves: 4
Penne alla Crudaiola is a delightful Italian pasta dish that celebrates the fresh, vibrant flavors of summer. This simple yet flavorful recipe incorporates an assortment of fresh vegetables, fragrant basil, and crunchy pine nuts, making it a perfect choice for a light, healthy meal. The ingredients come together in a delicious medley, and the best part is that no cooking is required for the vegetables, except for toasting the pine nuts. Hereโs how you can recreate this mouthwatering dish at home.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Penne Rigate | 320g |
| Black Olives | 50g |
| Zucchini | 150g |
| Champignon Mushrooms | 150g |
| Cherry Tomatoes | 300g |
| Pine Nuts | 40g |
| Garlic | 1 clove |
| Fresh Basil | 40g (a small bunch) |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 50ml |
| Fine Salt | To taste |
| Black Pepper | To taste |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by washing and halving the cherry tomatoes. Next, wash and trim the zucchini, then slice it into thin rounds. Set these aside in a large mixing bowl. Slice the champignon mushrooms as well and add them to the bowl along with the tomatoes and zucchini. Add the black olives (pitted) to the mixture as well. -
-
Season the Vegetables:
Finely chop the garlic and add it to the bowl. Tear the basil leaves into small pieces with your hands and add them to the mixture for a burst of fresh aroma. Drizzle the vegetables with the extra virgin olive oil, then sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Add the pine nuts and mix all the ingredients thoroughly. Allow the mixture to marinate for at least 10 minutes so that the flavors can meld together beautifully. -
Cook the Pasta:
While the vegetable mixture is resting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne rigate and cook them according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Be sure to keep an eye on the pasta to avoid overcooking it, as it should retain its firm texture to complement the fresh vegetables. -
Combine Pasta and Vegetables:
Once the penne is cooked, drain it and add it directly to the bowl with the marinated vegetables. Toss everything together gently, making sure that the pasta is well coated with the delicious mixture of olive oil, garlic, and basil. The heat from the pasta will help to soften the vegetables just slightly, allowing the flavors to infuse even further. -
Serve:
Serve the Penne alla Crudaiola immediately, garnishing with additional fresh basil if desired. This dish can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making it a perfect dish for summer gatherings, picnics, or light weeknight dinners.
Tips and Variations:
- Add Protein: If youโd like to make this dish more substantial, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even some crumbled feta cheese for extra protein and flavor.
- Vegan Version: For a fully vegan option, ensure that you are using vegan-friendly pine nuts and olive oil, which are already included in this recipe.
- Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with other herbs such as oregano or parsley for a different aromatic profile.
- Cheese Lovers: If you enjoy a bit of cheese, sprinkle some grated Parmigiano-Reggiano or Pecorino Romano on top before serving to add a salty, savory note to the dish.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~350 kcal |
| Protein | 8g |
| Carbohydrates | 50g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Fat | 14g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Sodium | 250mg |
| Sugar | 6g |
Why You’ll Love Penne alla Crudaiola:
This recipe is not only bursting with fresh flavors, but it also offers a balanced combination of healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants from the vegetables. The olive oil provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, while the garlic, basil, and pine nuts add layers of flavor that make this pasta dish absolutely irresistible.
Perfect for warm weather, Penne alla Crudaiola is a versatile dish that can be served as a light lunch, a side for a larger meal, or even a refreshing dinner on a hot evening. The best part? Itโs quick, easy, and requires minimal preparation time, letting you enjoy a deliciously fresh meal in no time.
Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply looking for a tasty dish to brighten your day, Penne alla Crudaiola will surely impress with its vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients. Enjoy!
