Lemon Rosemary Sauce Baked Penne Pasta Recipe
Dive into a delightful culinary experience with this Lemon Rosemary Sauce Baked Penne Pasta, a dish that effortlessly combines the vibrant flavors of lemon and fresh rosemary with the comforting textures of baked pasta. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or an elegant weekend gathering, this recipe offers a symphony of tastes that will tantalize your palate.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Penne pasta | 2 cups (whole wheat recommended) |
| Butter | 3 tablespoons |
| Garlic, minced | 5 cloves |
| Lemon juice | 1/4 cup |
| Lemon zest | 1 teaspoon |
| Fresh rosemary, finely chopped | 2 tablespoons |
| Black pepper powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Mozzarella cheese, grated | 1/2 cup |
Nutritional Information
| Nutritional Component | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 400 |
| Total Fat | 20 g |
| Saturated Fat | 12 g |
| Carbohydrates | 45 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 5 g |
| Sugars | 2 g |
| Protein | 15 g |
Preparation Details
| Preparation Time | Cooking Time | Total Time | Servings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 minutes | 20 minutes | 35 minutes | 2 servings |
Instructions
To embark on your culinary adventure with this Lemon Rosemary Sauce Baked Penne Pasta, start by bringing 500 ml of water to a rolling boil in a medium-sized saucepan. Add a pinch of salt, followed by the penne pasta. Allow the pasta to cook for 10 to 12 minutes, or until it reaches that perfect al dente texture—tender yet with a slight bite. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold running water to halt the cooking process. Drizzle with a little olive oil and toss gently to prevent sticking.
In a skillet over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic, along with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Sauté the mixture, stirring frequently until the garlic becomes fragrant and turns a lovely golden brown—this should take about 2 to 3 minutes.
Next, introduce the vibrant lemon juice, the finely chopped rosemary, and the lemon zest to the skillet. Stir everything together, allowing the flavors to meld, and then remove the skillet from heat.
Now, gently fold in the cooked penne pasta, ensuring each piece is well-coated in the luscious lemon and garlic sauce. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle the top generously with grated mozzarella cheese.
Preheat your oven to 150°C (about 300°F). Bake the pasta for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown—creating a tantalizingly gooey top that beckons for you to dig in.
This delectable Lemon Rosemary Sauce Baked Penne Pasta is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, perhaps accompanied by a refreshing Cantaloupe Pomegranate and Mint Juice and a delightful Summer Salad with Goat Cream Cheese, Apricots, and Raspberry Dressing. Together, they create a harmonious feast that will leave your family and friends raving about your culinary prowess long after the last bite.
Enjoy!
Indulge in the comforting flavors of this dish that beautifully marries the zest of lemon and the earthy aroma of rosemary, making every forkful a celebration of simple yet exquisite ingredients. Happy cooking!
