Penne Rigate with Fresh Herbs: A Mediterranean Twist

Introduction: A Taste of the Mediterranean Sun

As a passionate food blogger and cookbook author, I find immense joy in bringing the flavors of my Italian heritage to life in the kitchens of Savannah, GA. The art of Mediterranean cooking goes beyond just preparing a meal—it’s about infusing each dish with love, heritage, and a touch of the sun-soaked Mediterranean countryside. Today, I invite you to join me on a culinary journey with a recipe that embodies the freshness of the Mediterranean: Penne Rigate with Fresh Herbs. This dish not only celebrates the vibrant flavors of Italy but also honors the sustainable practices that are near and dear to my heart.

Ingredients

• 1 pound of penne rigate pasta
• 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese for topping

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
3. Add the diced red and yellow bell peppers to the skillet and cook until they start to soften, about 5 minutes.
4. Toss in the cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until they begin to burst.
5. Stir in the chopped basil and parsley, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add the cooked penne to the skillet, along with a splash of reserved pasta water. Toss everything together to combine and let the flavors meld for a minute or two.
7. Divide the pasta among plates, drizzle with a little extra olive oil, and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
8. Serve the Penne Rigate with Fresh Herbs hot and enjoy the taste of the Mediterranean!

Nutritional Information (Optional)

• This dish is rich in whole grains from the penne pasta, vitamins and antioxidants from the fresh herbs and bell peppers, and healthy fats from the olive oil. It’s a perfect representation of the heart-healthy Mediterranean diet.

Sustainable Cooking Tips

• To make this dish even more sustainable, consider using organic and locally-sourced ingredients whenever possible. You can also plant your own herbs in a Mediterranean garden to have a fresh supply on hand at all times.

Artistic Presentation Tips

When serving Penne Rigate with Fresh Herbs, channel your inner artist by arranging the dish on beautiful ceramic plates, reminiscent of my pottery. Garnish with a sprig of fresh basil or parsley for a touch of elegance that reflects the Mediterranean countryside.

Conclusion

Embrace the Mediterranean way of cooking with Penne Rigate with Fresh Herbs and savor each bite as a celebration of tradition, flavor, and sustainability. I hope this recipe inspires you to delve into the world of Italian cuisine and incorporate sustainable practices into your own culinary adventures. Share your experiences with me and let’s continue to cultivate a community devoted to wholesome eating and mindful living. Buon appetito!