DIY Masterpiece: Create Restaurant-Quality Penne Rosa with Noodles & Co.’s Easy Recipe

Craving the tantalizing flavors of Noodles & Company’s signature Penne Rosa? Look no further! This comprehensive guide will empower you to recreate this culinary masterpiece in the comfort of your own kitchen. With detailed instructions and insider tips, you’ll be able to savor the authentic taste of this beloved pasta dish.

Ingredients: A Symphony of Flavors

To embark on this culinary adventure, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 pound penne pasta
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Cooking Instructions: A Step-by-Step Journey

1. Prepare the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta and set aside.

2. Sauté the Garlic: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

3. Create the Creamy Base: Gradually whisk the heavy cream into the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

4. Incorporate the Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and season with salt and black pepper to taste.

5. Toss in the Pasta: Add the cooked penne to the skillet and toss to coat thoroughly in the creamy sauce.

6. Garnish with Basil: Sprinkle the chopped fresh basil over the pasta and stir gently.

7. Serve and Savor: Transfer the Penne Rosa to serving bowls and garnish with additional Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Tips for Perfection: Enhancing Your Culinary Experience

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh basil and Parmesan cheese to maximize flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Al dente pasta will absorb the sauce better.
• Adjust Salt and Pepper: Taste the sauce as you cook and adjust seasonings to your preference.
• Experiment with Variations: Add sautéed mushrooms, grilled chicken, or roasted vegetables to customize your Penne Rosa.
• Pair with a Crisp Salad: Serve your pasta with a refreshing green salad for a balanced meal.

Health Benefits: Nourishment in Every Bite

Indulge in this delicious dish without guilt, as Penne Rosa offers several health benefits:

• Whole Grains: Penne pasta provides fiber, which supports digestive health and satiety.
• Dairy: Parmesan cheese is a good source of calcium, essential for strong bones.
• Antioxidants: Sun-dried tomatoes contain lycopene, an antioxidant that may protect against chronic diseases.

Budget-Friendly Options: Savory Flavors Without Breaking the Bank

Enjoy the flavors of Penne Rosa even with a limited budget:

• Use Affordable Pasta: Opt for generic or store-brand pasta to save money.
• Substitute Parmesan: Use Romano or Asiago cheese as a less expensive alternative.
• Grow Your Own Basil: Cultivate fresh basil in your garden or on a windowsill to reduce costs.
• Shop for Sun-Dried Tomatoes in Bulk: Purchase sun-dried tomatoes in bulk to save on per-unit costs.

What People Want to Know

1. Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute other short pasta shapes like rotini or farfalle.

2. How do I make the sauce thicker?
Add a cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and water) to the sauce and cook until thickened.

3. Can I add other vegetables to the dish?
Absolutely! Consider adding sautéed zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.

4. How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Omit the Parmesan cheese and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.

5. Can I freeze Penne Rosa?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked Penne Rosa in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.