What is a Penne Rosa recipe?

Penne Rosa is a creamy tomato-based pasta dish inspired by Noodles & Companys spin on Italian classics. It features penne pasta cooked in a rich pink sauce made from marinara, cream, and often includes mushrooms, spinach, and fresh Roma tomatoes. It's a versatile, comforting meal loved for its balance of creamy and tangy flavors.

How can I make Penne Rosa vegetarian or vegan?

The recipe is naturally vegetarian. To make it vegan, substitute dairy cream and cheese with plant-based alternatives such as almond milk and vegan cream cheese. Additionally, use vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast to maintain the cheesy flavor. Adding extra veggies also enhances the dishs flavor and nutrition.

Can I add meat or protein to Penne Rosa?

Yes, you can add grilled chicken, Italian sausage, shrimp, or even white beans for added protein and substance. These options complement the creamy tomato sauce while maintaining the dishs comforting nature.

What pasta can be used as a substitute for penne?

Alternatives include farfalle, ziti, rotini, or linguine. Its best to cook these to al dente to preserve the texture and help the sauce cling properly.

Penne Rosa Recipe: Creamy Tomato Noodles Delight

Name: Delicious Penne Rosa Recipe: A Flavorful Noodles & Creamy Tomato Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz penne pasta; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 teaspoon oregano; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 to 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; 4 oz sliced white mushrooms; 2 to 3 small Roma tomatoes, diced; 3 cups fresh spinach leaves; 1 cup marinara sauce; 1/2 cup cream or milk (use almond milk for a lighter or vegan option); 2 oz low-fat cream cheese (or substitute with vegan cream cheese); A handful of grated Parmesan cheese (or use vegan Parmesan)

Ingredients

Scale

8 oz penne pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon oregano
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 to 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
4 oz sliced white mushrooms
2 to 3 small Roma tomatoes, diced
3 cups fresh spinach leaves
1 cup marinara sauce
1/2 cup cream or milk (use almond milk for a lighter or vegan option)
2 oz low-fat cream cheese (or substitute with vegan cream cheese)
A handful of grated Parmesan cheese (or use vegan Parmesan)

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Instructions

1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the mushrooms until they are tender.
3. Add minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and oregano, and cook until aromatic.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes and spinach, cooking until the spinach wilts.
5. Pour in marinara sauce and add cream or milk, stirring to combine well.
6. Mix in the cream cheese until it is melted and the sauce is smooth.
7. Remove the skillet from heat and toss the cooked pasta with the sauce.
8. Top with grated Parmesan cheese before serving for a delicious finish.

Notes

🍆 For a vegan dish, use dairy-free cream and vegan cheese alternatives.
🔥 Spice lovers can add more red pepper flakes or substitute Rotel tomatoes for an extra kick.
🔄 Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat on medium-low heat to preserve texture and flavor.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
N/A: 0 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Sautéing
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 350