Triple Tomato Sauce Penne Recipe

Dive into the world of Italian cuisine with this Triple Tomato Sauce Penne Recipe. This dish combines the rich, robust flavors of three different types of tomatoes into a single velvety sauce that coats each piece of penne. It's a perfect meal for a cozy night in or for impressing guests at a dinner party.

Photos of Triple Tomato Sauce Penne Recipe

The key ingredients for this recipe are fresh tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, and tomato paste. Fresh tomatoes are a staple in most kitchens. However, sun-dried tomatoes and tomato paste may not be as commonly available. Sun-dried tomatoes are usually found in the produce section of the supermarket or can be ordered online. They have a concentrated, tangy flavor that adds depth to the sauce. Tomato paste, found in the canned goods section, is a thick, concentrated form of tomatoes that gives the sauce its rich texture and color.

Ingredients for the Triple Tomato Sauce Penne Recipe

Penne: The pasta choice for this recipe. It's tube-shaped which allows the sauce to adhere better.

Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes add a sweet and slightly acidic flavor to the sauce.

Sun-dried tomatoes: These tomatoes provide a concentrated, tangy flavor to the sauce.

Tomato paste: This ingredient gives the sauce its rich texture and deep red color.

Basil leaves: Fresh basil leaves enhance the tomato flavor and add an aromatic touch.

Garlic: Gives the dish an additional flavor depth.

Olive oil: Used to sauté the ingredients and add richness to the sauce.

Salt and pepper: To taste, they enhance the flavors of all other ingredients.

One reader, Joly Renteria says:

This triple tomato sauce penne recipe is a game-changer! The combination of fresh and sun-dried tomatoes creates a rich and flavorful sauce that perfectly coats the penne. The addition of basil and garlic elevates the dish to a whole new level. It's a must-try for any pasta lover!

Joly Renteria

Mastering the Art of Cooking Penne Pasta

How to cook the penne: Boil the penne in a large pot of salted water until it is al dente.

How to make the tomato sauce: In a blender, combine the diced tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, garlic, and olive oil. Puree the mixture until smooth.

How to season the tomato sauce: After pouring the tomato sauce into a large bowl, season it with salt and pepper to taste.

How to toss the pasta with the sauce: Drain the cooked penne and add it to the bowl with the tomato sauce. Toss the pasta well to ensure it is evenly coated with the sauce.

How to serve the pasta: Serve the triple tomato sauce penne piping hot for the best flavor and enjoyment.

How To Make Triple Tomato Sauce Penne

With three types of tomato used to make its rich sauce, this penne recipe is simple but loaded with beautifully fresh flavors.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking:

Total: 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1lbpenne
2tomatoes,(5 oz each)
4sun dried tomatoes,oil packed
2tbsptomato paste
4basil leaves
1cartongarlic
cupextra virgin olive oil
kosher salt and freshly ground pepper

Instructions

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the penne until al dente.
Meanwhile, in a blender, combine the diced tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, garlic and olive oil. Puree until smooth.
Pour the tomato sauce into a large bowl and season with salt and pepper.
Drain the pasta, add it to the sauce and toss well to coat.
Serve the pasta piping hot.

Nutrition

Calories: 477.00kcal
Fat: 4.59g
Saturated Fat: 0.72g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2.13g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.02g
Carbohydrates: 92.06g
Fiber: 5.22g
Sugar: 6.44g
Protein: 16.41g
Sodium: 452.48mg
Calcium: 49.59mg
Potassium: 581.56mg
Iron: 2.25mg
Vitamin A: 34.27µg
Vitamin C: 12.92mg

Expert Advice for Perfecting Triple Tomato Sauce Penne

To ensure that your penne is cooked to perfection, it's important to stir it occasionally while it's boiling. This prevents the pasta from sticking together and allows it to cook evenly. Additionally, when blending your tomato sauce, start at a low speed and gradually increase. This will help to fully incorporate all the ingredients and create a smoother, more uniform sauce.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Triple Tomato Sauce Penne

Plan ahead: Prep your ingredients and kitchen tools before starting. This will help you work more efficiently and avoid last-minute rushes.

Multitask: While the pasta is cooking, work on preparing the sauce to save time and get the meal ready faster.

Use quality ingredients: Quality ingredients often require less manipulation and can enhance the overall flavor of the dish.

Batch cooking: Consider making a larger batch of the sauce and freezing the extra for future use. This can save time on busy days.

Clean as you go: Wash and put away utensils and tools as you cook to keep your workspace organized and make cleanup easier later.

Substitute Ingredients For Triple Tomato Sauce Penne Recipe

tomatoes – Substitute with canned diced tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes can be used as a substitute for fresh tomatoes in the sauce, providing a similar flavor and texture.
sun dried tomatoes – Substitute with tomato sauce: Tomato sauce can be used as a substitute for sun-dried tomatoes to add a rich tomato flavor to the dish.
tomato paste – Substitute with ketchup: Ketchup can be used as a substitute for tomato paste to add sweetness and tanginess to the sauce.
basil leaves – Substitute with dried basil: Dried basil can be used as a substitute for fresh basil leaves, providing a similar flavor and aroma to the dish.
garlic – Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic, adding a concentrated garlic flavor to the dish.

Plating Ideas for a Delightful Pasta Dish

Elevate the plating: Create a visually stunning presentation by using a combination of vibrant colors and contrasting textures. Arrange the penne in a neat mound at the center of the plate and drizzle the triple tomato sauce around it in an artistic manner.
Garnish with fresh basil: Add a touch of freshness and elegance by garnishing the dish with a few whole basil leaves. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also infuses the dish with a delightful aroma.
Incorporate a Parmesan crisp: Elevate the dish by adding a delicate Parmesan crisp on top of the penne. The crisp adds a delightful crunch and a hint of savory flavor, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Use a fine dining pasta bowl: Present the triple tomato sauce penne in a sophisticated, high-quality pasta bowl to create a sense of luxury and refinement. The choice of serving ware can significantly impact the overall dining experience.
Accent with microgreens: Sprinkle a few carefully placed microgreens on top of the penne to add a pop of color and a subtle hint of earthy flavor, elevating the dish to a gourmet level.
Consider a side of garlic bread: Serve the triple tomato sauce penne with a side of freshly baked garlic bread, beautifully presented on the plate to complement the flavors and add an element of indulgence to the dish.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Penne Pasta

Large pot: A large pot is essential for boiling the penne pasta. It should be big enough to comfortably hold the pasta and water, allowing it to cook evenly.
Blender: A blender is used to puree the tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, garlic, and olive oil to create a smooth and flavorful tomato sauce.
Large bowl: A large bowl is needed to mix and toss the cooked penne with the tomato sauce, ensuring that the pasta is evenly coated.
Colander: A colander is used to drain the cooked penne pasta before adding it to the tomato sauce.
Knife: A knife is necessary for dicing the fresh tomatoes and chopping the sun-dried tomatoes and basil leaves.
Cutting board: A cutting board provides a stable surface for chopping and dicing the fresh tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, and basil leaves.
Measuring spoons: Measuring spoons are used to accurately measure the tomato paste and other ingredients, ensuring the right balance of flavors in the tomato sauce.
Salt shaker and pepper grinder: These are used to season the tomato sauce with kosher salt and freshly ground pepper to taste.

Storing and Freezing Leftover Penne Pasta

Allow the triple tomato sauce penne to cool completely before storing or freezing.
To store in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled pasta and sauce to an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the penne and sauce:
- Divide the cooled pasta and sauce into individual portions or freeze as a whole batch in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag.
- If using a container, make sure to leave some space at the top for expansion during freezing.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Tomato-based sauces generally freeze well for up to 3 months.
To reheat frozen triple tomato sauce penne:
- Thaw the frozen pasta and sauce in the refrigerator overnight.
- Transfer the thawed pasta and sauce to a saucepan or microwave-safe dish.
- Reheat gently over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring between each interval, until warmed to your liking.
- If the sauce appears too thick after thawing, you can add a splash of water or olive oil to help loosen it up while reheating.
Note that the texture of the pasta may change slightly after freezing and reheating, but the flavor of the dish should remain delicious.

How To Reheat Leftover Penne Pasta

Stovetop method: transfer the leftover triple tomato sauce penne to a saucepan and add a splash of water or chicken broth. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is heated through and the sauce is warm and bubbly. If the sauce seems too thick, add more liquid as needed.
Microwave method: place the leftover penne in a microwave-safe dish and add a splash of water or chicken broth. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the pasta is heated through and the sauce is warm.
Oven method: preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover triple tomato sauce penne to an oven-safe dish and add a splash of water or chicken broth. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is heated through and the sauce is warm and bubbly.
Pasta bake method: preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the leftover penne to an oven-safe dish and add a splash of water or chicken broth. Top the pasta with shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the pasta is heated through.
Cold pasta salad method: if you prefer a cold pasta dish, rinse the leftover triple tomato sauce penne under cold water until it's cool. Toss the pasta with additional olive oil, chopped fresh basil, and diced tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve the pasta salad chilled.

Interesting Trivia About Penne Pasta

The triple tomato sauce penne recipe is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed by the whole family. With a blend of fresh and sun-dried tomatoes, along with fragrant basil and garlic, this pasta dish is bursting with flavor. The combination of these ingredients creates a rich and savory tomato sauce that perfectly coats the penne. It's a simple yet satisfying meal that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with your favorite protein. Whether you're a pasta enthusiast or just looking for a new recipe to try, the triple tomato sauce penne is sure to become a household favorite.

Budget-Friendly Penne Pasta Recipe for Home Cooks

The cost-effectiveness of this triple tomato sauce penne recipe is quite high. The ingredients, such as tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil, are commonly found in households, making it a budget-friendly option. The use of fresh and sun-dried tomatoes adds depth of flavor without breaking the bank. Additionally, the versatility of this dish allows for easy customization based on available ingredients. Overall Verdict: 9/10. Approximate cost for a household of 4 people: $10-15 USD.

Is Triple Tomato Sauce Penne Healthy?

The triple tomato sauce penne recipe is relatively healthy, as it incorporates several nutritious ingredients:

Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, vitamin C, and antioxidants
Sun-dried tomatoes provide concentrated flavor and nutrients
Basil is a good source of vitamins A, C, and K
Garlic offers potential health benefits, such as boosting the immune system
Extra virgin olive oil is a healthy source of monounsaturated fats

However, there are a few aspects that could be improved to make the recipe even healthier:

The recipe lacks a significant source of protein, which is essential for a balanced meal
The sodium content may be high due to the salted cooking water and added salt
The dish could benefit from the inclusion of more vegetables to increase fiber and nutrient intake

To enhance the nutritional value of this recipe, consider the following suggestions:

Add a lean protein source, such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu, to make the meal more complete and satisfying
Reduce the amount of salt used in the cooking water and season the sauce with herbs and spices instead, such as oregano, red pepper flakes, or fresh parsley
Incorporate additional vegetables into the sauce or serve them on the side, such as sautéed spinach, roasted zucchini, or steamed broccoli
Use whole wheat penne pasta to increase the fiber content and provide a more complex carbohydrate source
Moderate the portion size of pasta and balance it with the added protein and vegetables to create a well-rounded meal

Editor's Opinion: A Flavorful and Satisfying Pasta Recipe

This triple tomato sauce penne recipe is a delightful combination of fresh and sun-dried tomatoes, enhanced by the aromatic flavors of basil and garlic. The use of extra virgin olive oil adds a rich and luxurious texture to the dish. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the natural flavors to shine through, resulting in a harmonious and satisfying pasta dish. The recipe is easy to follow and yields a deliciously vibrant and flavorful sauce that beautifully coats the penne. It's a perfect choice for a quick and satisfying meal.

Enhance Your Triple Tomato Sauce Penne Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Bread: Create a mouthwatering garlic bread with a crispy crust and soft, buttery center to complement the rich tomato flavors of the penne.

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Serve up a colorful and flavorful assortment of grilled vegetable skewers, adding a healthy and vibrant element to the meal.

Tiramisu: Indulge in a classic Italian tiramisu for a sweet and creamy dessert that perfectly rounds out the savory triple tomato sauce penne.

Similar Recipes to Triple Tomato Sauce Penne

Creamy Mushroom Risotto: This creamy and flavorful risotto is the perfect comfort food for a cozy night in. The combination of earthy mushrooms and creamy Arborio rice will leave you wanting more.

Citrus Grilled Chicken: This zesty and juicy grilled chicken is the perfect dish for a summer barbecue. The citrus marinade adds a refreshing twist to the classic grilled chicken, making it a crowd-pleaser.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: This tropical and refreshing chia pudding is a healthy and delicious dessert option. The combination of sweet mango and creamy coconut milk creates a satisfying treat that's perfect for any time of day.

Perfect Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Triple Tomato Sauce Penne

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. Bake until golden and crispy for a delicious start to any meal.

Bruschetta: Elevate the classic bruschetta by topping crispy bread with a colorful and vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and balsamic glaze. This refreshing appetizer is perfect for any occasion.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a decadent, rich chocolate lava cake that oozes with warm, gooey goodness. The perfect dessert for any chocolate lover.

Tiramisu: Transport yourself to Italy with a classic tiramisu, featuring layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone cheese. A timeless and elegant dessert option.

Why trust this Triple Tomato Sauce Penne Recipe:

This triple tomato sauce penne recipe offers a burst of flavor with the combination of fresh tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, and tomato paste. The use of basil and garlic enhances the aromatic profile, while the addition of extra virgin olive oil provides a rich and luxurious texture. The recipe's simplicity allows the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine, promising a delightful dining experience. Trust in the quality of the ingredients and the harmonious blend of flavors to elevate your pasta dish to a new level of culinary satisfaction.

Share your thoughts and experiences with the Triple Tomato Sauce Penne Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section.

FAQ:

What can I substitute for sun-dried tomatoes?

If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes, you can use fresh tomatoes or tomato paste to enhance the flavor of the sauce. You can also try using roasted red peppers for a slightly different flavor profile.

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While penne works great with this sauce, you can use any pasta you have on hand. Fusilli, spaghetti, or rigatoni would all work well with this flavorful tomato sauce.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the penne with gluten-free pasta. There are many options available, such as brown rice pasta, quinoa pasta, or chickpea pasta, which would all pair wonderfully with the triple tomato sauce.

Can I make the tomato sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the tomato sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to use it, simply reheat the sauce in a saucepan and toss it with freshly cooked pasta.

Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe can easily be made vegan by ensuring that the pasta is vegan-friendly and using a vegan-friendly alternative to Parmesan cheese for garnishing, such as nutritional yeast or a vegan Parmesan substitute.