Experience the simple yet irresistible flavors of Italy with Pasta Di Pina, a creamy penne pasta dish that's bursting with fresh, vibrant ingredients. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe combines al dente penne with juicy, sautéed cherry tomatoes, a luscious garlic-infused cream sauce, and the unmistakable aroma of fresh basil. A touch of Parmesan cheese melts into the sauce, creating a velvety texture, while optional red chili flakes add a subtle kick. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is a comforting, crowd-pleasing favorite that's as easy to prepare as it is to devour. Serve it warm with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and basil for the ultimate Italian-inspired meal! Keywords: creamy penne pasta, quick Italian dinner, Pasta Di Pina, garlic cream sauce, fresh basil recipe.
Bring 4 liters of water to a rolling boil in a large pot. Add a generous pinch of salt and cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions, until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and release their juices.
Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Add the salt, black pepper, and optional chili flakes for a touch of heat. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce until evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up to your desired consistency.
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped basil leaves.
Divide the Pasta Di Pina into serving plates and garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and a few whole basil leaves, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Calories |
2625 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 117.5 g | 151% | |
| Saturated Fat | 54.4 g | 272% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 250 mg | 83% | |
| Sodium | 3416 mg | 149% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 309.6 g | 113% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 19.0 g | 68% | |
| Total Sugars | 7.8 g | ||
| Protein | 73.8 g | 148% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 859 mg | 66% | |
| Iron | 16.3 mg | 91% | |
| Potassium | 1596 mg | 34% | |
*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.