Penne Pasta with Marinara
A heart-healthy and protein-packed dish combining penne pasta with a rich marinara sauce, perfect for busy families and meal prep.
Ingredients
For the Marinara Sauce
- 2 cans Whole peeled San Marzano tomatoes Provides a rich flavor base with natural sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons Extra virgin olive oil Adds a smooth, fruity note and enhances overall flavor.
- 4 cloves Garlic cloves Infuses the sauce with a warm, comforting aroma.
- 2 tablespoons Tomato paste Concentrated flavor booster for a deeper sauce.
- 1 teaspoon Kosher salt Enhances all the flavors present in the dish.
- 1 teaspoon Freshly ground black pepper Adds a subtle kick and balances sweetness.
- ½ cup Fresh basil or oregano Introduces a fragrant herbal note that elevates the sauce.
Main Ingredients
- 12 ounces Dried penne pasta The star, perfectly delivering the sauce with each bite.
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather your ingredients from the pantry and make sure you have everything on hand.
- Peel and smash the garlic cloves; this enhances their flavor when cooked.
- Chop fresh basil if using, setting aside a small amount for garnish.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to boil over high heat.
Cooking
- Add the dried penne pasta to the boiling water. Cook according to package instructions, typically 10–12 minutes.
- While the pasta cooks, heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the smashed garlic cloves and sauté until golden, about 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn.
- Stir in the whole peeled San Marzano tomatoes and tomato paste, breaking up the tomatoes with a spoon.
- Add kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and the fresh herbs. Simmer for 10–15 minutes until thickened.
Serving
- When pasta is al dente, reserve a cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
- Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet with the marinara sauce, tossing to coat.
- If needed, add reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired sauciness.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil and a sprinkle of black pepper if desired.
Notes
To enhance flavor, let the marinara simmer longer and use quality olive oil. Store leftovers in airtight containers and consider using gluten-free penne if needed.