Pasta is a beloved dish that can be prepared in many ways to suit all tastes. Among these ways, penne pasta with tomato sauce is one of the simple and delicious recipes that combines authentic Italian flavors with spices that add a touch of heat and tanginess. In this article, we will present a detailed method for preparing penne pasta with tomato sauce, and we will provide tips for preparing it in a perfect way to ensure a delicious and distinctive dish.

Ingredients:

• • 450 grams penne pasta: A type of short, tube-shaped pasta that is perfect for soaking up sauces and seasonings.

  • 4 ripe tomatoes: Chopped, adding a fresh, acidic flavor to the sauce.

  • 2 cloves garlic: Minced, adding depth and a strong flavor.

  • 1/3 cup olive oil: For a rich flavor and distinctive taste.

  • 1/4 cup parsley: Chopped, adds a touch of fresh flavor and vibrant green color.

  • Salt: To taste.

  • Black pepper: For a slightly spicy taste.

  • Dried red chili pepper: Optional, to taste, to add a touch of heat.

Instructions:

1. 1. • Prepare the sauce: 

• Start by preparing the sauce, which is the main element of this dish. Dice the tomatoes into small cubes, then grate the garlic well, and chop it with the parsley in a food processor until you get a smooth mixture.

• Heat the oil in a skillet over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté gently until it starts to change color and become fragrant. Avoid burning the garlic as it will result in a bitter taste.

1. 1. • Prepare the sauce:  

• After sautéing the garlic, add the diced tomatoes to the skillet and mix well with the garlic. Add salt and black pepper to the mixture. If you prefer to add a touch of heat, add a little dried red chili pepper.

• Let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the consistency is suitable.

• • • Cook the pasta:

• Meanwhile, boil a large amount of water in a pot over the heat. Add a tablespoon of salt, then add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until tender but still al dente.

• Drain the pasta in a colander to drain excess water.

• • • Combine the pasta with the sauce: 

• In a large pot, heat a little oil, then add the cooked pasta to the pot. Add half of the sauce you prepared, then add the chopped parsley. Stir the mixture well until the sauce is evenly distributed over the pasta.

• • • Serving: 

• Transfer the pasta to a serving dish. Add the remaining sauce over the pasta and distribute it evenly. You can garnish the dish with more fresh parsley if desired.

• Serve the pasta hot and enjoy a delicious and hearty meal!

Tips:

• Vary the flavors: You can add other ingredients such as chopped black olives or grated cheese to add new flavors to the dish.

• Prepare in advance: The sauce can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, making the cooking process faster and easier on busy days.

• Add protein: If you want to make the dish more nutritious, you can add grilled chicken or ground beef.

• Herbs and spices: You can try different herbs and spices such as fresh basil, oregano, thyme, or chili pepper to add varied flavors.

• Vegetables: You can add a variety of fresh or grilled vegetables to the pasta to increase its nutritional value and improve its taste. Some suggested options include:

  • Bell peppers: Can be diced and added to the sauce.

  • Eggplant: Can be grilled and diced and added to the pasta.

In this way, you can enjoy a penne pasta with tomato sauce dish that combines simplicity and great taste, and makes every meal a delicious and enjoyable experience.

• Note: This recipe is ideal for lovers of fresh pasta and spicy seasonings, but it may not be suitable for those who do not prefer spicy flavors or are allergic to garlic and tomatoes.

Nutritional Information for Penne Pasta with Tomato Sauce:

Individual Ingredients:

• Penne Pasta (450g):

  • Calories: 675 kcal

  • Protein: 24g

  • Carbohydrates: 135g

  • Fat: 3g

  • Fiber: 6g

• Tomatoes (4, approx. 500g):

  • Calories: 100 kcal

  • Protein: 3g

  • Carbohydrates: 22g

  • Fat: 1g

  • Fiber: 6g

• Lycopene: One of the most powerful antioxidants, it is believed to play an important role in preventing many chronic diseases, such as heart disease and cancer.

• Vitamin C: Contributes to strengthening the immune system and protecting cells from damage.

• Potassium: Important for heart health and blood pressure.

• B vitamins: Contribute to energy production and improve nerve function.

Garlic (2 cloves, approx. 6g):

• • Calories: 9 kcal

  • Protein: 0.4g

  • Carbohydrates: 2g

  • Fat: 0.03g

  • Fiber: 0.3g

• Allicin: A sulfur compound that has antibacterial and antifungal properties and promotes heart health.
• Antioxidants: Protects cells from damage caused by free radicals.

Olive Oil (1/3 cup, approx. 80ml):

• • Calories: 720 kcal

  • Protein: 0g

  • Carbohydrates: 0g

  • Fat: 80g

  • Fiber: 0g

• Vitamin E: A powerful antioxidant that protects skin and hair from damage.
• Unsaturated fatty acids: Help lower bad cholesterol and improve heart health.

Parsley (1/4 cup, approx. 15g):

• • Calories: 5 kcal

  • Protein: 0.5g

  • Carbohydrates: 1g

  • Fat: 0.1g

  • Fiber: 0.6g

Total Nutritional Values (for the entire recipe):

• Calories: Approximately 1509 kcal

• Protein: 27.9g

• Carbohydrates: 160g

• Fat: 84.13g

• Fiber: 12.9g

Note: These values are estimates and may vary depending on specific brands and quantities used.