Penne

Penne is a type of pasta with a cylindrical shape, and its ends are cut at a bias, resembling the nib of a quill pen, hence the name ‘penne’, which translates to ‘pen’ in Italian. It’s traditionally made from durum wheat semolina and water. Penne comes in two main varieties: penne lisce, which has a smooth surface, and penne rigate, with ridged edges.

The tube-like structure and ridges of penne make it perfect for a variety of dishes as they effectively hold sauces and ingredients within and on the surface. Whether it’s a thick tomato-based sauce, a light olive oil dressing, or a creamy Alfredo, penne serves as the perfect vehicle.

Health Benefits of penne:

• Rich in Carbohydrates: Penne pasta is a great source of carbohydrates, an essential macronutrient that serves as a primary source of energy.
• Source of Protein: It provides a decent amount of plant-based protein necessary for muscle repair and growth.
• Low in Fat: Naturally low in fat, penne can easily fit into various balanced diet plans.
• Full of Fiber: If made from whole grain, penne pasta can be a good source of dietary fiber, supporting digestion and providing a feeling of fullness.

International Dishes using penne:

Penne alla Vodka: An Italian-American dish that combines penne with a creamy, tomato, and vodka sauce.

Penne Arrabbiata: A traditional Italian dish that pairs penne with a spicy tomato sauce.

Baked Penne with Cheese: Popular in American cuisine, this dish is essentially a pasta bake with penne, cheese, and often a meat sauce.

Penne Primavera: A vibrant dish combining penne with a variety of spring vegetables.

Penne Arrabbiata

Cooking Tips

• Pasta Water: Save some of the pasta water. The starchy water can help thicken your sauce and allows it to adhere better to the pasta.
• Avoid Rinsing: Don’t rinse the pasta after cooking, as it removes the starch that helps the sauce cling to it.
• Undercook for Bakes: If using penne for a baked dish, undercook it by a few minutes, as it will continue cooking in the oven.
• Stir Often: Ensure you stir the pasta often while boiling to prevent sticking.

Nutrition Facts:

Calories: 157 kcal

Protein: 5.8g

Carbohydrates: 30.9g

Fat: 0.9g

Fiber: 1.8g

Sodium: 1mg

Storage Instructions:

• Uncooked penne can be stored in a cool, dry pantry for up to three years. Once cooked, penne should be refrigerated in an airtight container and used within three to five days. Cooked penne can also be frozen for up to two months; just make sure it’s completely cooled before storing.

Discover the boundless culinary potential of penne, a pasta variety that promises to impress with its substance and ability to marry with diverse flavors. Its iconic shape and texture open the doors to a world of gastronomic creativity and satisfaction. Whatever your cooking prowess might be, penne encourages experimentation and rewards with tantalizing outcomes. So, go ahead, embrace the versatility of penne and elevate your everyday meals into something truly extraordinary. Penne is not just a pasta, it’s a canvas for culinary artistry. Let your imagination and taste buds guide you in creating your next masterpiece with penne.