Provolone Penne Primavera

Introduction

A medley of colorful vegetables, perfectly cooked penne, and melted provolone cheese come together to create a flavorful and satisfying Provolone Penne Primavera. This dish is a celebration of fresh ingredients, ideal for busy weeknights or relaxed family dinners. With its vibrant presentation and cheesy goodness, it’s bound to become a favorite!

Reasons to Love This Provolone Penne Primavera Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Healthy & Versatile: Packed with fresh vegetables and customizable to your taste.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for both vegetarians and cheese lovers.
• Simple Ingredients: No fancy pantry items required.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Pasta: 12 oz penne, cooked al dente.
• Vegetables: Garlic, onion, red and yellow bell peppers, zucchini, yellow squash, cherry tomatoes, and black olives.
• Seasoning: Salt, pepper, dried Italian seasoning, and fresh basil.
• Cheese: 1 cup shredded provolone cheese.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons for sautéing.

Possible Ingredient Additions and Substitutions

• Add Protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for added protein.
• Switch Cheeses: Substitute provolone with mozzarella, Parmesan, or even gouda for a unique twist.
• Herb Variations: Swap basil with parsley, thyme, or oregano.
• Extra Veggies: Mushrooms, spinach, or asparagus can complement the dish.

Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot for boiling pasta.
• Skillet or sauté pan for cooking vegetables.
• Colander for draining pasta.
• Cutting board and knife for prep.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Prepare penne according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté garlic and onions until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Cook the Vegetables: Add bell peppers, zucchini, and squash. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until tender-crisp, 5-7 minutes.
4. Add Final Ingredients: Stir in cherry tomatoes and black olives. Cook until tomatoes start to soften.
5. Combine: Toss the cooked penne with the vegetable mixture until combined and heated through.
6. Cheese It Up: Sprinkle provolone over the pasta, cover, and let sit until melted. Stir gently to distribute.
7. Garnish and Serve: Top with fresh basil and serve hot.

What to Serve with Provolone Penne Primavera

• Sides: Garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
• Wine Pairing: A crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red such as Pinot Noir complements beautifully.

How to Store Provolone Penne Primavera

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet with a splash of water or olive oil to retain moisture.

Can I Freeze Provolone Penne Primavera?

While freezing is possible, it’s best enjoyed fresh. If freezing, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen or thaw in the fridge overnight before warming.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use gluten-free pasta?
A: Absolutely! Choose a gluten-free penne to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

Q: What’s the best cheese substitute for provolone?
A: Mozzarella or Monterey Jack are excellent substitutes with similar meltability.

Q: How can I make this dish vegan?
A: Use plant-based cheese and omit the provolone for a vegan-friendly version.

Nutritional Information

Per serving: Calories: 350 | Protein: 12g | Carbs: 45g | Fat: 12g | Fiber: 6g

Conclusion

Provolone Penne Primavera is a vibrant, cheesy, and veggie-packed meal that’s easy to prepare and delightful to eat. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish delivers on flavor and comfort. Try it today, and bring a taste of primavera to your table!

Provolone Penne Primavera

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A medley of colorful vegetables, perfectly cooked penne, and melted provolone cheese come together to create a flavorful and satisfying Provolone Penne Primavera. This dish is a celebration of fresh ingredients, ideal for busy weeknights or relaxed family dinners. With its vibrant presentation and cheesy goodness, it’s bound to become a favorite!

• Author: Anna
• Prep Time: 10min
• Cook Time: 15-20min
• Total Time: 25-30min
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: main dish
• Method: Sautéing, Boiling
• Cuisine: italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• Pasta: 12 oz penne, cooked al dente.
• Vegetables: Garlic, onion, red and yellow bell peppers, zucchini, yellow squash, cherry tomatoes, and black olives.
• Seasoning: Salt, pepper, dried Italian seasoning, and fresh basil.
• Cheese: 1 cup shredded provolone cheese.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons for sautéing.

Instructions

• Cook the Pasta: Boil the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
• Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and onions, cooking until onions become translucent (3-4 minutes).
• Add Veggies: Stir in bell peppers, zucchini, and yellow squash. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 5-7 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
• Add Tomatoes and Olives: Stir in halved cherry tomatoes and black olives, cooking for 2-3 minutes until tomatoes soften.
• Combine Pasta and Veggies: Add cooked penne to the vegetable mixture and toss until well combined and heated through.
• Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded provolone cheese over the pasta, cover, and let it melt (a few minutes).
• Garnish and Serve: Top with chopped fresh basil leaves before serving.

Notes

• If you prefer a protein, grilled chicken or shrimp would complement the dish beautifully.
• Feel free to substitute provolone with mozzarella or gouda for a different flavor profile.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 450 mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 20mg