Savor the comforting flavors of this *Low Sodium Penne Pasta with Marinara Sauce*, a heart-healthy twist on a classic Italian dish. This recipe combines tender whole-grain penne with a rich, homemade marinara sauce brimming with the natural sweetness of sautéed carrots, celery, and onions. Made without added salt, the sauce gets its robust flavor from no-salt-added crushed tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and a perfect medley of dried basil, oregano, and a hint of red pepper flakes. In just 40 minutes, you'll have a wholesome, lower-sodium meal that's perfect for the whole family. Serve garnished with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan for a final touch of decadence. A quick, easy, and delicious way to enjoy pasta night guilt-free!
Begin by bringing 4 cups of water to a boil in a large pot over high heat. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 9-11 minutes.
While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic, chopped onion, carrot, and celery to the pan. Sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes, or until they are softened and the onion is translucent.
Stir in the no-salt-added crushed tomatoes along with the dried basil, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, and black pepper.
Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning to taste if necessary, keeping sodium in mind.
Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and add it to the saucepan with the marinara sauce. Toss together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
Serve the low sodium penne pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Enjoy your meal knowing it's delicious and heart-friendly!
Calories |
2035 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 52.9 g | 68% | |
| Saturated Fat | 15.3 g | 76% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 48 mg | 16% | |
| Sodium | 1126 mg | 49% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 324.5 g | 118% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 32.3 g | 115% | |
| Total Sugars | 40.4 g | ||
| Protein | 79.0 g | 158% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 992 mg | 76% | |
| Iron | 17.7 mg | 98% | |
| Potassium | 3497 mg | 74% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.