Looking for a quick, easy, and nutritious meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters? Look no further than penne pasta! This classic Italian dish can be transformed into a delicious and healthy meal with just a few simple swaps. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouthwatering penne pasta recipes that are packed with nutrients and flavor.
From creamy sauces made with avocado and olive oil to hearty dishes featuring grilled chicken and roasted vegetables, there’s something for everyone on this list. And the best part? Each of these recipes is incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal cooking time and few ingredients. So whether you’re a busy parent looking for a healthy lunch option or a foodie seeking inspiration for your next dinner party, we’ve got you covered.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into each of these 20 scrumptious penne pasta recipes, exploring the ingredients, instructions, and nutritional benefits that make them so special. So grab a fork and get ready to indulge in some seriously delicious and healthy eats!
Whole Wheat Penne with Spinach and Garlic
This recipe combines the comfort of whole wheat pasta with the goodness of spinach and garlic, making it a perfect weeknight meal. In just 15 minutes, you’ll have a flavorful and nutritious dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz whole wheat penne
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the whole wheat penne according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add the fresh spinach leaves to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the spinach mixture. Toss everything together, adding some reserved pasta water if needed to achieve desired consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 1-2
Penne Pasta with Roasted Vegetables and Olive Oil
This recipe combines the simplicity of pasta with the depth of flavor from roasted vegetables, all tied together with a drizzle of olive oil. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that can be customized to your favorite vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and onions)
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the vegetables with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
4. In a large skillet, combine the roasted vegetables, cooked pasta, and remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Toss to combine, adding some reserved pasta water if needed.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with Parmesan cheese, if using.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Avocado Penne Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes
This recipe combines the creaminess of avocado with the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, all wrapped up in a delicious penne pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the garlic for 1 minute over medium heat.
3. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they start to release their juices.
4. Stir in the diced avocado and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
5. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, tomato-avocado mixture, and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Penne with Grilled Chicken and Broccoli
A flavorful and nutritious pasta dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. This recipe combines grilled chicken, tender broccoli, and al dente penne pasta in a rich and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 bunch of broccoli, trimmed into florets
– 12 ounces penne pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add broccoli and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, grilled chicken, and broccoli. Toss with Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Penne Pasta with Olives and Feta
This hearty pasta dish combines the bright flavors of the Mediterranean with the creaminess of feta cheese, all on a bed of al dente penne. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side to your favorite main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup penne pasta
– 2 cups mixed olives (Kalamata, green, and black), pitted
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or oregano leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add mixed olives, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the olives are heated through.
4. Stir in crumbled feta cheese until well combined with the olive mixture.
5. Combine cooked penne pasta with the olive-feta mixture. Toss until pasta is well coated.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or oregano leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Penne Arrabbiata with Fresh Basil
This Italian-inspired pasta dish combines the simplicity of penne pasta with the bold flavors of arrabbiata sauce and the brightness of fresh basil. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful lunch, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– 1/4 cup arrabbiata sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tsp red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add cherry tomatoes, arrabbiata sauce, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Add cooked penne pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with sauce. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Penne Pasta with Turkey Meatballs and Marinara
A hearty and flavorful pasta dish that combines the comfort of homemade meatballs with the tanginess of marinara sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound penne pasta
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
4. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. While meatballs are cooking, heat marinara sauce over medium-low heat.
7. Combine cooked pasta and marinara sauce. Add turkey meatballs and toss to coat.
8. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Penne Pasta
A bright and zesty twist on a classic pasta dish, this Lemon Garlic Shrimp Penne Pasta is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and simmer for 1 minute.
5. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss with garlic-lemon sauce.
7. Return shrimp to the skillet and toss to combine.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Penne with Mushrooms and Light Cream Sauce
This classic Italian dish is a staple of comfort food at its finest. This recipe combines the earthy flavor of mushrooms with the richness of light cream, all wrapped up in al dente penne pasta.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) penne pasta
– 2 cups (250g) mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup (240ml) light cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms, onion, and garlic; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Pour in light cream and stir to combine with the mushroom mixture. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Combine cooked penne pasta with the mushroom sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegan Penne Pasta with Cashew Alfredo Sauce
Vegan Penne Pasta with Cashew Alfredo Sauce: A creamy and rich pasta dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe replaces traditional heavy cream with cashews, creating a dairy-free alternative that’s just as satisfying.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 1 cup cashews
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup nutritional yeast
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a blender, combine cashews, garlic, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Blend on high until smooth and creamy, adding reserved pasta water as needed.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the blended sauce and stir constantly for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
4. Combine cooked penne pasta with the cashew alfredo sauce. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto Penne Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines the creamy flavors of pesto with the sweet and savory taste of sun-dried tomatoes. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto sauce (see note)
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, combine the cooked penne pasta, pesto sauce, and sun-dried tomatoes. Toss until well combined, adding some reserved pasta water if needed to achieve desired creaminess.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer the pasta mixture to a serving dish or individual plates. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Penne with Grilled Zucchini and Parmesan
A simple yet flavorful summer pasta dish that combines the sweetness of grilled zucchini with the creaminess of parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 3 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Brush zucchini slices with olive oil and season with garlic, salt, and pepper. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
3. In a large skillet, combine grilled zucchini, reserved pasta water, and parmesan cheese. Toss over low heat until the cheese is melted and the sauce coats the pasta.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Healthy Penne Primavera with Seasonal Veggies
Penne primavera is a classic Italian dish that’s typically rich and heavy, but this healthier version uses seasonal veggies to add natural sweetness and texture. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup penne pasta
– 2 cups mixed seasonal veggies (such as cherry tomatoes, zucchini, bell peppers, and onions)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the mixed veggies and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss with the veggie mixture.
5. Squeeze lemon juice over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it on top and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Penne Pasta with Chickpeas and Spinach
This recipe is a flavorful and healthy twist on traditional pasta dishes, packed with protein-rich chickpeas, nutrient-dense spinach, and whole-grain penne pasta. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup penne pasta
– 1 can (14.5 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add chickpeas and cook for 2-3 minutes or until lightly browned.
4. Stir in fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
5. Combine cooked pasta with chickpea-spinach mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tomato Basil Penne Pasta with Balsamic Glaze
Savor the flavors of Italy with this classic pasta dish, featuring fresh tomatoes, basil, and a rich balsamic glaze. This simple yet satisfying recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– 1 tsp honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, combine cherry tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Roast in the oven for 15-20 minutes or until tomatoes release their juices and start to caramelize.
5. Stir in chopped basil and cook for an additional minute.
6. Meanwhile, whisk together balsamic vinegar and honey to create a glaze.
7. Combine cooked pasta, roasted tomato mixture, and balsamic glaze. Toss to coat.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Penne with Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese
This creamy pasta dish combines the sweetness of roasted red peppers with the tanginess of goat cheese, all wrapped up in a satisfying penne pasta package. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast the red peppers for 30-40 minutes, or until charred and blistered.
3. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until translucent.
5. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
6. Stir in roasted red peppers and crumbled goat cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Combine cooked penne pasta with the red pepper mixture. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Greek Yogurt Alfredo Penne Pasta
This recipe takes the rich flavors of traditional Alfredo sauce and gives it a refreshing twist by incorporating Greek yogurt. The result is a creamy, tangy, and utterly delicious pasta dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Whisk in Parmesan cheese until smooth. Gradually add Greek yogurt, whisking constantly until combined.
4. Stir in basil, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and sauce. Toss until well coated.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Penne with Kale and White Bean Ragu
A hearty and flavorful pasta dish that combines the nutty sweetness of white beans with the earthy goodness of kale, all wrapped up in a rich tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 1 cup cooked white beans (such as cannellini or Great Northern)
– 2 cups curly kale leaves, stems removed and discarded
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4. Add the cooked white beans, crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Add the reserved pasta water to the ragu, then stir in the chopped kale leaves. Cook until the kale is wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Serve the penne with the kale and white bean ragu, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Penne Pasta with Light Pesto and Grilled Chicken
This refreshing summer pasta dish combines the flavors of grilled chicken, light pesto, and penne pasta for a quick and easy meal. With minimal ingredients and simple preparation, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/4 cup light pesto sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, combine light pesto sauce and olive oil. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Add grilled chicken to the skillet and toss with pesto mixture.
5. Combine cooked pasta and chicken in the skillet. Toss until well coated with pesto sauce.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Herb Penne Pasta with Roasted Cauliflower
This hearty pasta dish combines the rich flavors of garlic and herbs with the tender sweetness of roasted cauliflower, all wrapped up in a comforting penne pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 cup mixed fresh herbs (such as parsley, basil, and thyme)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss cauliflower with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
3. In a large skillet, sauté garlic and herbs in olive oil over medium heat until fragrant.
4. Add cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Toss until well combined.
5. Serve hot, topped with roasted cauliflower florets.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a culinary delight! This article presents 20 scrumptious and healthy penne pasta recipes that are both nutritious and delicious. From classic combinations like whole wheat penne with spinach and garlic to more unique options such as creamy avocado penne with cherry tomatoes, there’s something for everyone. Discover how to incorporate roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, and other wholesome ingredients into your pasta dishes. With a range of flavors and textures to choose from, you’re sure to find a new favorite recipe that suits your taste buds and dietary needs.