Lemon Rosemary Sauce Baked Penne Pasta Recipe
Cuisine: Italian
Course: Main Course
Diet: Vegetarian
This Lemon Rosemary Sauce Baked Penne Pasta offers a delightful twist on traditional pasta dishes, infusing the dish with refreshing citrus notes and aromatic rosemary. The bright, zesty lemon pairs perfectly with the earthy, fragrant rosemary, creating a harmonious balance that elevates this dish. Whether you choose to bake it for a golden, cheesy finish or prepare it on the stovetop for a quicker version, the ingredients blend seamlessly for a satisfying meal. Baked to perfection with melted mozzarella cheese, this pasta dish is an ideal choice for those who appreciate the unique combination of lemony freshness and savory flavors.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Durum Wheat Penne Pasta | 2 cups (I used whole wheat pasta) |
| Butter (Salted) | 3 tablespoons |
| Garlic | 5 cloves, minced |
| Lemon juice | 1/4 cup |
| Lemon | 1 teaspoon zest |
| Rosemary | 2 tablespoons, finely chopped |
| Black pepper powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Mozzarella cheese | 1/2 cup, grated |
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Pasta:
Begin by boiling 500 ml of water in a large saucepan. Add a pinch of salt and stir in the durum wheat penne pasta. Cook the pasta for 10-12 minutes, or until al dente (firm to the bite). Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander, rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process, and drizzle with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Toss well to coat the pasta. -
Make the Lemon Rosemary Sauce:
While the pasta is cooking, heat a skillet over medium-low heat and melt the salted butter. Add the minced garlic to the pan, and sauté for 1-2 minutes until the garlic turns golden brown and fragrant. Add the lemon juice, fresh rosemary, and lemon zest. Stir well to combine the flavors, then remove the skillet from the heat. -
Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the lemon rosemary sauce. Toss the pasta gently to ensure that each piece is evenly coated with the sauce. -
Bake the Pasta:
Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F). Transfer the coated pasta into a baking dish and sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese on top. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is golden and bubbling. -
Serve:
Once the cheese has melted and the top is lightly browned, remove the pasta from the oven. Serve hot, paired with a refreshing Cantaloupe Pomegranate and Mint Juice and a Summer Salad with Goat Cream Cheese, Apricots, and Raspberry Dressing for a delightful weekend gathering.
This Lemon Rosemary Sauce Baked Penne Pasta is a must-try for pasta lovers looking for a unique twist. The combination of lemon, rosemary, and mozzarella cheese creates a dish that’s fresh, savory, and incredibly satisfying. Whether served on its own or as part of a festive meal, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.
