Simple, fresh, and satisfying, Penne with White Beans, Tomatoes, and Basil is the perfect weeknight dinner that brings vibrant flavors to your table in just 30 minutes. Tender penne pasta is tossed with sweet, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy white beans, and aromatic fresh basil, all lightly coated in a garlic-infused olive oil sauce. A hint of red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick, while grated Parmesan cheese lends a rich, savory finish. This one-pan wonder is not only easy to prepare but also packed with wholesome ingredients, making it a deliciously balanced vegetarian option. Serve this comforting dish on its own or pair it with a side salad for a complete, crowd-pleasing meal.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water before draining, then set the pasta aside.
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Finely mince the garlic cloves and add them to the skillet. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant but not browned.
Halve the cherry tomatoes and add them to the skillet. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and release their juices.
Drain and rinse the canned white beans, then add them to the skillet with the tomatoes. Stir in the red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 3-4 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.
Tear or roughly chop the fresh basil leaves. Add the drained pasta, fresh basil, and reserved pasta cooking water to the skillet. Toss everything together to coat the pasta evenly.
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Toss once more just before serving.
Divide the pasta among four bowls or plates. Optionally, garnish with additional basil leaves and Parmesan cheese. Serve warm.
Calories |
2437 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 49.4 g | 63% | |
| Saturated Fat | 13.2 g | 66% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 3.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 40 mg | 13% | |
| Sodium | 3351 mg | 146% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 400.4 g | 146% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 48.0 g | 171% | |
| Total Sugars | 16.7 g | ||
| Protein | 109.1 g | 218% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 868 mg | 67% | |
| Iron | 24.3 mg | 135% | |
| Potassium | 3740 mg | 80% | |
*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.