Elevate your weeknight dinner with this vibrant and flavorful Penne with Artichoke Hearts! This easy-to-make pasta dish combines tender penne with marinated artichoke hearts, bursting cherry tomatoes, and a hint of garlic for a Mediterranean-inspired meal that's ready in just 30 minutes. A touch of red pepper flakes adds subtle heat, while fresh basil and creamy Parmesan cheese lend a final flourish of indulgence. The simple yet sophisticated sauce comes together effortlessly with reserved pasta water, creating a silky coating that binds every forkful. Perfect for busy nights or casual entertaining, this recipe is a celebration of bold flavors and wholesome ingredients. Pair it with a fresh green salad and crusty bread for a complete, satisfying meal!
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Add the marinated artichoke hearts to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to brown slightly.
Stir in the cherry tomatoes, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 5-6 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and release their juices.
Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the vegetable mixture. Pour in the reserved pasta water a little at a time, stirring to create a light sauce that coats the pasta evenly.
Turn off the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
Garnish the pasta with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately, with extra Parmesan on the side if desired.
Calories |
2118 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 78.6 g | 101% | |
| Saturated Fat | 16.5 g | 82% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 40 mg | 13% | |
| Sodium | 3470 mg | 151% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 298.5 g | 109% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 33.6 g | 120% | |
| Total Sugars | 11.8 g | ||
| Protein | 71.1 g | 142% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 745 mg | 57% | |
| Iron | 20.2 mg | 112% | |
| Potassium | 2238 mg | 48% | |
*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.