Hearty Winter Penne Pasta Recipe
**Hearty Winter Penne Pasta Recipe: A Comforting Dish for Cold Days**
When the temperature drops and the days grow shorter, there’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty meal to lift your spirits and nourish your body. Winter is the perfect time to indulge in comforting dishes that are both satisfying and wholesome. One such dish is a hearty winter penne pasta recipe that combines robust flavors, seasonal ingredients, and a touch of indulgence to create a meal that’s perfect for cozy nights at home.
This recipe is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite vegetables, proteins, and spices. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a gathering of friends, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
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### **Why Penne Pasta?**
Penne pasta is an excellent choice for hearty winter recipes due to its tubular shape and ridged surface, which are perfect for holding onto rich sauces and chunky ingredients. Its sturdy texture makes it ideal for pairing with robust flavors, ensuring every bite is packed with deliciousness.
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### **Key Ingredients for a Winter-Inspired Penne Pasta**
To create a hearty winter penne pasta, it’s essential to incorporate ingredients that are in season and provide warmth and depth of flavor. Here’s a breakdown of the key components:
1. **Pasta:** Penne is the star of the dish, but feel free to use whole wheat or gluten-free options if preferred.
2. **Seasonal Vegetables:** Winter vegetables like butternut squash, kale, spinach, mushrooms, and Brussels sprouts add a nutritious and earthy element.
3. **Protein:** Choose from Italian sausage, chicken, or plant-based options like chickpeas or lentils for a vegetarian twist.
4. **Sauce:** A rich tomato-based sauce, creamy Alfredo, or a garlic-infused olive oil base works beautifully for this dish.
5. **Cheese:** Parmesan, Pecorino Romano, or mozzarella add a creamy, savory finish.
6. **Herbs and Spices:** Fresh rosemary, thyme, sage, and a pinch of red pepper flakes bring warmth and complexity to the dish.
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### **Hearty Winter Penne Pasta Recipe**
Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this comforting dish:
#### **Ingredients:**
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 cup butternut squash, diced
– 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
– 2 cups kale or spinach, chopped
– 1 lb Italian sausage (or plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for a creamy sauce)
– 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley for garnish
#### **Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Pasta:**
– Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. **Prepare the Vegetables:**
– In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent.
– Add the butternut squash and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to soften.
– Stir in the mushrooms and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they release their moisture.
3. **Cook the Protein:**
– If using Italian sausage, remove it from the casing and crumble it into the skillet. Cook until browned and fully cooked through. For vegetarian options, add chickpeas or plant-based sausage at this stage.
4. **Build the Sauce:**
– Pour in the diced tomatoes, along with their juices, and stir to combine.
– Add the thyme, rosemary, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
– If you prefer a creamy sauce, stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. **Combine the Pasta and Sauce:**
– Add the cooked penne to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, use the reserved pasta water to loosen it to your desired consistency.
6. **Add the Greens and Cheese:**
– Stir in the chopped kale or spinach, allowing it to wilt slightly. Sprinkle in half of the Parmesan cheese and mix well.
7. **Serve and Garnish:**
– Divide the pasta among serving bowls and top with the remaining Parmesan cheese. Garn