Penne
This penne recipe is my cozy hug in a bowl, especially when I need something warm and comforting after a long day. The fresh basil and garlic in the tomato sauce truly lift my spirits.
I first whipped up this penne dish during a chilly fall evening when I was craving something hearty yet simple.
It was one of those moments where I tossed in whatever I had on hand, and it turned out to be a new favorite.
I discovered that letting the garlic sizzle just right before adding the tomatoes makes all the difference.
Cooking this reminds me to slow down and savor each step, which is a lovely little ritual.
What Makes This Recipe Special
- ✓Made with simple, plant-based ingredients that are easy to find
- ✓No animal products - completely vegan and cruelty-free
- ✓Perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike
- ✓Delicious results that everyone will love, vegan or not
Ingredients & Substitutions
I love using whole wheat penne here because it adds a nice chew and keeps me full longer, but if you’re in the mood for something different, chickpea or lentil pasta are great protein-packed options.
Tips & Notes
- •I like to sprinkle a bit of red pepper flakes right at the end for a little kick that warms you from the inside out.
- •If you want a silkier sauce, give those crushed tomatoes a quick blend before they hit the skillet—I promise it’s worth the extra step.
- •Sometimes, I toss in a handful of spinach just before serving for a pop of green and an extra nutrient boost.
Recipe Variations
- •When I’m feeling adventurous, I add some sautéed zucchini or bell peppers—they make it a bit more colorful and nutritious.
- •My friend Sarah swears by topping her bowl with a generous sprinkle of hemp seeds for that nutty crunch.
Storage & Freezing
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free penne pasta and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
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This penne recipe is my cozy hug in a bowl, especially when I need something warm and comforting after a long day. The fresh basil and garlic in the tomato sauce truly lift my spirits.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 10-12 minutes.
- 2
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- 3
Pour in the canned crushed tomatoes and stir to combine with the garlic. Bring to a simmer.
- 4
Add the chopped fresh basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to the tomato sauce. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- 5
Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water.
- 6
Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
- 7
Stir in the nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor and mix well. Remove from heat.
- 8
Serve immediately, garnished with additional fresh basil if desired.
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