1-First Step: Prepare Your Ingredients Begin by cooking 1 lb of penne pasta according to the package directions until it’s al dente, which takes about 10 minutes. While the pasta boils, dice 3 Roma tomatoes and slice any needed vegetables, ensuring everything is ready to go. This prep helps keep Penne Rosa moving quickly and allows for easy swaps, like fresh herbs variations if you’re aiming for a lighter version.

2-Second Step: Sauté the Vegetables Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 8 oz of sliced mushrooms and sauté them for about 3 minutes until they turn tender and release their juices. For a twist, you could add more fresh herbs here to enhance the creamy tomato sauce, and if you’re making it low-calorie, consider using less oil for a healthier take on this classic dish.

3-Third Step: Add Aromatics and Base Once the mushrooms are ready, stir in 3 pressed garlic cloves and cook for another minute to build flavor without burning. Next, mix in the cooked and drained penne pasta, 1 ½ cups of marinara sauce, and ½ to 1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes. Stir everything together to coat the pasta evenly, adapting by reducing spices if you’re serving kids or those with mild preferences.

4-Fourth Step: Incorporate Fresh Elements Add the diced Roma tomatoes and 3 cups of fresh spinach to the skillet, then cook until the spinach wilts, which should take about 2 minutes. This step brings in freshness and color, making Penne Rosa vibrant and nutritious. If you’re customizing for a vegan option, ensure any added ingredients align with that choice to keep the tomato sauce creamy yet plant-based.

5-Fifth Step: Finish with Cream and Seasoning Stir in ½ cup of heavy whipping cream, ½ teaspoon of kosher salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, then heat the mixture just until it’s warm, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to boil it, as that could separate the sauce. This is where the creamy tomato sauce really shines, and you can adjust seasonings based on your taste or dietary needs, like using a salt substitute for low-sodium versions.

6-Final Step: Serve and Enjoy Once everything is combined, remove from heat and serve the Penne Rosa hot, topped with ½ cup of shredded Parmesan cheese for a finishing touch. This dish pairs well with a refreshing drink, such as the one found in our Brazilian lemonade recipe, to balance the flavors. For about 8 servings, portion it out and enjoy the creamy, herbaceous notes that make this pasta a go-to option.