Penne pasta – a classic Italian staple that never goes out of style. Whether you’re a busy professional looking for a quick and easy lunch option, or a health-conscious individual seeking to incorporate more vegetables into your meals, penne pasta has got you covered. And the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! With its tubular shape and rough texture, penne pairs perfectly with a wide range of ingredients, from rich sauces to roasted vegetables.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 delicious and healthy penne pasta recipes that are easy to make and packed with nutrients. From creamy avocado pesto to spicy arrabbiata, there’s something for everyone on this list. So grab your favorite penne recipe book (or scroll down!) and get ready to dish up a plate of flavor-packed goodness.
Spinach and Feta Healthy Penne Pasta
A quick and nutritious pasta dish packed with nutrients from spinach and feta cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner that’s both healthy and satisfying.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook 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 sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add fresh spinach leaves to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine cooked pasta, wilted spinach mixture, and crumbled feta cheese in a large bowl.
5. Toss everything together until well combined. If desired, sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and toss again.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Shrimp and Zucchini Penne Pasta
A flavorful and nutritious pasta dish that combines succulent garlic shrimp with sautéed zucchini, penne pasta, and a hint of garlic butter. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 medium zucchini, sliced
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
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. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
4. Add zucchini to the same skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, until tender.
5. Add white wine (if using) and reserved pasta water to the skillet. Stir to combine.
6. Combine cooked pasta, shrimp, and zucchini in a serving bowl. Toss with garlic butter sauce (see below).
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Veggie Whole Wheat Penne Pasta
A flavorful and nutritious pasta dish that combines the goodness of roasted vegetables with the wholesomeness of whole wheat penne pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz whole wheat penne pasta
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large onion, peeled and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cook whole wheat penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, toss together olive oil, chopped onion, minced garlic, and mixed vegetables. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Spread the vegetable mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Combine cooked pasta and roasted vegetables. Top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Avocado Pesto Penne Pasta
This recipe combines the richness of avocados with the brightness of pesto sauce, all tossed with penne pasta for a delicious and satisfying meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 ripe avocados, peeled and pitted
– 1/4 cup freshly made basil pesto
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 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 blender or food processor, combine avocado, pesto, garlic, and reserved pasta water. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the blended mixture to the cooked pasta, tossing to coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Herb Chicken Penne Pasta
A bright and flavorful twist on classic pasta, this recipe combines tender chicken, zesty lemon, and fragrant herbs with al dente penne noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 8 ounces penne pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing into strips.
4. In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Add lemon juice, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Add cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat with the lemon-herb sauce.
6. Combine cooked pasta, chicken, and sauce in a large serving bowl. Toss to combine. Top with Parmesan cheese (if using) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Kale Penne Pasta
This flavorful pasta dish combines the richness of sun-dried tomatoes with the earthy taste of kale, all wrapped up in a comforting bowl of penne. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups kale leaves, stems removed and chopped
– 2 tbsp 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. 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.
3. Add chopped kale leaves to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and cooked penne pasta. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. If desired, top with grated Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Chickpea Penne Pasta
A flavorful and nutritious pasta dish that combines the creamy taste of chickpeas with the bold flavors of the Mediterranean.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add chickpeas, parsley, feta cheese, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Combine cooked penne pasta with the chickpea mixture. If using red wine vinegar, stir it in at this point.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Broccoli and Almond Penne Pasta
A flavorful and nutritious pasta dish that combines the crunch of almonds with the tender sweetness of broccoli, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp dried basil
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add broccoli and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
4. In a separate pan, toast almonds over low heat, stirring frequently, until fragrant.
5. Combine cooked pasta, broccoli mixture, and toasted almonds in a serving dish.
6. Toss with Parmesan cheese and basil. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Spicy Arrabbiata Penne Pasta
Add a kick of flavor to your pasta dish with this spicy Arrabbiata sauce. Penne pasta is tossed with garlic, tomatoes, and red pepper flakes for a bold and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
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, or until fragrant.
3. Add crushed tomatoes, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Simmer sauce for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing flavors to meld together.
5. Add reserved pasta water to the sauce if it becomes too thick.
6. Toss cooked penne pasta with the Arrabbiata sauce until well coated.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Mushroom and Thyme Penne Pasta
Savor the rich flavors of this comforting pasta dish, where tender mushrooms and fragrant thyme are elevated by a creamy sauce. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 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 onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and thyme; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked pasta and mushroom sauce. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tomato Basil and Lentil Penne Pasta
A flavorful and nutritious pasta dish that combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the earthiness of lentils, all wrapped up in a rich basil sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound penne pasta
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 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
– 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. 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.
3. Add cherry tomatoes and cooked lentils to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until tomatoes start to release their juices.
4. Stir in chopped basil leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked penne pasta, tomato-lentil mixture, and reserved pasta water. Toss until well coated.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Eggplant and Olive Penne Pasta
This recipe combines the smoky flavor of grilled eggplant with the brininess of olives, all wrapped up in a flavorful penne pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 penne pasta
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush eggplant slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill eggplant for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender and lightly charred.
4. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. In a large skillet, combine garlic, olives, and grilled eggplant. Cook over medium heat for 1-2 minutes.
6. Add cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss to combine with eggplant mixture.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese and parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pumpkin Sage Penne Pasta
This autumn-inspired pasta dish combines the comforting warmth of penne with the rich flavors of roasted pumpkin and fragrant sage. Perfect for a cozy fall evening, this recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound penne pasta
– 2 cups cooked pumpkin (canned or fresh, roasted)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
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, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
4. Add roasted pumpkin, chopped sage, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Combine cooked penne pasta with the pumpkin mixture; toss to coat.
6. Serve warm, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quinoa and Spinach Penne Pasta
A healthy and flavorful twist on classic pasta dishes, this recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the earthy taste of spinach and the comfort of penne pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup cooked penne pasta
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add spinach leaves to the skillet; cook until wilted, about 1 minute.
4. Combine cooked quinoa, penne pasta, and spinach mixture in a large bowl.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Quinoa: 15-20 minutes
– Spinach mixture: 3-4 minutes
– Total cooking time: 18-24 minutes
Artichoke and Parmesan Penne Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy and savory recipe, featuring artichoke hearts and the perfect blend of Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add artichoke hearts and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese and heavy cream until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked pasta and artichoke mixture. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beetroot and Goat Cheese Penne Pasta
A vibrant and creamy pasta dish that combines the sweetness of beetroot with the tanginess of goat cheese, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. This recipe is an easy and flavorful way to get your daily dose of veggies and protein.
Ingredients:
– 250g penne pasta
– 2 medium beetroot, peeled and cooked
– 1 cup goat cheese crumbles
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°C.
2. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the cooked beetroot to the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic and oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine the cooked pasta, beetroot mixture, and goat cheese crumbles in a large serving bowl. Toss until the pasta is well coated.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Coconut Curry Penne Pasta
A creamy and aromatic twist on traditional pasta dishes, this Coconut Curry Penne Pasta is a perfect blend of Indian and Italian flavors.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 tbsp curry powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated cheddar cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp of oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add curry powder, cumin, and turmeric to the skillet; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Pour in coconut milk and stir to combine. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 5 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Combine cooked pasta and curry sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated cheddar cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Chicken Penne Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this sweet and tangy Balsamic Glazed Chicken Penne Pasta recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (see note)
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium and add garlic; cook for 1 minute.
5. Stir in balsamic glaze and bring to a simmer. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
6. Toss cooked pasta with Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
7. Slice chicken breasts and serve on top of pasta, drizzled with balsamic glaze.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Zesty Lemon and Asparagus Penne Pasta
This vibrant pasta dish combines the sweetness of asparagus with the brightness of lemon, all wrapped up in a zesty and flavorful sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 2 cups fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then reserve.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté 1 minute.
3. Add asparagus to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until tender.
4. Stir in lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the sauce and toss to coat.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Herbed Tofu and Bell Pepper Penne Pasta
A flavorful and nutritious pasta dish that combines the creaminess of herbed tofu with the sweetness of roasted bell peppers. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and crumbled
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup penne pasta
– 1 large bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add crumbled tofu and cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes.
5. Roast bell pepper in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
6. Combine cooked pasta, herbed tofu, roasted bell peppers, parsley, basil, salt, and pepper.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the flavors of Italy with these 20 delicious and healthy penne pasta recipes! From Spinach and Feta to Coconut Curry, each dish is easy to make and packed with nutritious ingredients. Enjoy the classic combination of garlic shrimp and zucchini or try something new like roasted veggie whole wheat penne. Whether you’re in the mood for a creamy sauce or a light and zesty flavor, there’s something for everyone on this list. Treat your taste buds and get cooking with these 20 mouthwatering penne pasta recipes!
