Elevate your home cooking: step-by-step guide to crafting penne rosa from noodles & company

Craving the tantalizing flavors of Noodles & Company’s signature Penne Rosa? With our step-by-step guide, you can recreate this delectable dish in the comfort of your own kitchen. Follow along as we reveal the secrets to making a Penne Rosa that will rival the original.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound penne pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:

While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the onion until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.

3. Add the Red Bell Pepper:

Stir in the chopped red bell pepper and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.

4. Add the Peas:

Add the frozen peas and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.

5. Create the Sauce:

Pour the tomato sauce into the skillet and bring to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Combine the Pasta and Sauce:

Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the skillet with the sauce. Stir to combine.

7. Serve and Enjoy:

Ladle the Penne Rosa into serving bowls and garnish with additional Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Enhancements:

• Add Protein: Stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a protein boost.
• Use Different Vegetables: Experiment with other vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach.
• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
• Top with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle with fresh basil, oregano, or parsley for added flavor.

Tips:

• For a creamier sauce, use whole milk instead of heavy cream.
• If you don’t have heavy cream, you can substitute with milk and a tablespoon of cornstarch.
• Use high-quality tomato sauce for the best flavor.
• Don’t overcook the vegetables. They should still have a slight crunch.
• Season the sauce to your liking. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.

Variations:

• Penne alla Vodka: Add 1/2 cup vodka to the sauce for a richer flavor.
• Penne Primavera: Omit the tomato sauce and add more vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, and zucchini.
• Penne Alfredo: Use Alfredo sauce instead of tomato sauce for a creamy and cheesy pasta dish.

Conclusion:

With just a few simple steps, you can create a mouthwatering Penne Rosa that will impress your taste buds and transport you to the beloved Noodles & Company. Experiment with different flavors and enhancements to find your perfect combination. Enjoy this classic pasta dish in the comfort of your own home!

FAQ:

Q: Can I use other types of pasta besides penne?
A: Yes, you can use any type of short pasta, such as rotini, macaroni, or fusilli.

Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: Yes, simply omit the chicken or shrimp and add more vegetables to the sauce.

Q: How can I store the leftovers?
A: Store the leftover Penne Rosa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.