There is something truly comforting and vibrant about the Penne Pasta with Spinach and Roasted Red Pepper Cream Sauce Recipe that makes it a go-to for any weeknight dinner or casual gathering. Picture perfectly cooked penne bathed in a luscious, creamy sauce enriched by the sweetness of roasted red peppers and the fresh, delicate earthiness of spinach. This dish brings together simple, wholesome ingredients to create a harmonious plate full of color, texture, and flavor that feels both indulgent and nourishing. If you’ve been searching for a recipe that’s elegant without fuss, this one will win you over in 25 minutes flat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be fooled by the simplicity of the ingredients; each one plays a crucial role in building the bright, creamy, and savory character of this dish. They are easy to find, and when combined, they deliver an unforgettable taste experience with impressive depth.
- 8 oz penne pasta: A perfect tubular shape that holds the creamy sauce in every bite.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity richness and helps sauté the garlic and spinach to perfection.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with warm, aromatic notes that awaken the palate.
- 1 cup fresh spinach: Provides a tender texture and a pop of green that balances the creaminess.
- 1 cup roasted red peppers, chopped: Contributes a smoky sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the velvety base for the sauce, making every forkful decadently smooth.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor that enriches the sauce’s complexity.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the individual flavors.
- Fresh basil for garnish: Brings a fresh herbaceous aroma and lovely visual appeal as a finishing touch.
How to Make Penne Pasta with Spinach and Roasted Red Pepper Cream Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil for your penne pasta. Cooking the pasta until just al dente ensures it’s tender but still holds its shape and texture perfectly. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside, ready to soak up that incredible creamy sauce coming next.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Spinach
In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about one minute until you can smell its sweet aroma filling the kitchen. Then toss in the fresh spinach and sauté until it wilts down beautifully, releasing its mild earthy flavor and soft texture that balance the dish so well.
Step 3: Add Roasted Red Peppers
Next, stir in the chopped roasted red peppers. Let them mingle with the garlic and spinach for about two minutes, allowing their smoky sweetness to enhance the sauce’s foundation. This step really elevates the whole dish by bringing color and a subtle depth of flavor.
Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts fully, creating that irresistibly rich and creamy texture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let this sauce thicken slightly while stirring to make sure all the flavors marry beautifully.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Finally, add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss everything together, making sure each piece is generously coated by that luscious, flavorful sauce. This combination of creamy sauce, tender greens, and sweet peppers perfectly envelops the pasta in each bite.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finish your Penne Pasta with Spinach and Roasted Red Pepper Cream Sauce Recipe by sprinkling fresh basil on top. This not only adds a pop of color but also gives a hint of fresh herbaceous brightness that livens up the plate, inviting you to dive right in.
How to Serve Penne Pasta with Spinach and Roasted Red Pepper Cream Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a few whole basil leaves make beautiful garnishes that add an extra layer of flavor and elegance. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil can also enhance the dish’s silky richness.
Side Dishes
This creamy pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette to contrast the richness. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette also works perfectly to sop up every last bit of the velvety sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun dinner party twist, serve the Penne Pasta with Spinach and Roasted Red Pepper Cream Sauce Recipe in bright, individual bowls topped with microgreens or edible flowers. For a rustic vibe, present it family-style in a large, warm ceramic dish for everyone to share and enjoy together.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The sauce may thicken after chilling; just loosen it up with a splash of cream or milk before reheating.
Freezing
While this pasta tastes best fresh, you can freeze leftovers if needed. Place the pasta and sauce in a freezer-safe container and keep them for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently to maintain the creamy texture.
Reheating
Reheat the pasta gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a small amount of cream or water to restore the sauce’s smooth consistency. Avoid high heat, which can cause the cream sauce to separate.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can substitute frozen spinach if you don’t have fresh on hand. Just be sure to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before adding it to the skillet to avoid a watery sauce.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
If you want a lighter version, you can try using half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream cheese, although the sauce won’t be quite as rich and velvety.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Replace the heavy cream with a plant-based cream alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream, swap Parmesan for a vegan cheese or nutritional yeast, and use olive oil instead of any dairy butter.
How spicy is this Penne Pasta with Spinach and Roasted Red Pepper Cream Sauce Recipe?
This recipe is mild and creamy with no heat. However, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes during the garlic sauté step if you like a little spicy kick.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
You can prepare the cream sauce a few hours ahead and refrigerate it. Warm it gently before tossing with freshly cooked pasta for the best flavor and texture.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dish that feels both comforting and impressive, the Penne Pasta with Spinach and Roasted Red Pepper Cream Sauce Recipe is your new best friend. It’s quick to make, packed with vibrant flavors, and endlessly satisfying. Gather your ingredients, invite some good company, and get ready to enjoy a beautiful plate of creamy pasta that’s destined to become a staple in your kitchen.
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Penne Pasta with Spinach and Roasted Red Pepper Cream Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy and flavorful penne pasta dish featuring sautéed spinach and a rich roasted red pepper cream sauce, garnished with fresh basil. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz penne pasta
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- 1 cup roasted red peppers, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Boil the penne pasta in salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
- Sauté Garlic and Spinach: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant but not browned. Add the fresh spinach and cook until it wilts down, stirring occasionally.
- Add Roasted Red Peppers: Stir in the chopped roasted red peppers and cook for an additional 2 minutes to combine the flavors.
- Make the Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to your taste preference.
- Combine Pasta: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the cream sauce, tossing everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Serve: Serve the pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and freshness.
Notes
- For a lighter option, substitute half-and-half or milk for the heavy cream, but the sauce won’t be as rich.
- You can use jarred roasted red peppers for convenience.
- To make it vegetarian, ensure the Parmesan cheese does not contain animal rennet.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- Feel free to add cooked chicken, shrimp, or mushrooms for added protein and texture.
