This refreshing pasta dish is a perfect balance of textures and flavors, ideal for a light weeknight dinner. The star of the show is the creamy cauliflower, which absorbs the tangy, aromatic dressing made from fresh plum tomatoes, oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, and fragrant basil. It’s a vegan-friendly meal that feels indulgent yet healthy. The combination of sweet cauliflower and savory, umami-rich tomatoes creates a deeply satisfying flavor profile. Serve it warm or at room temperature, making it a versatile option for potlucks or casual family gatherings. ItâÂÂs simple, quick, and bursting with Mediterranean-inspired freshness.
Penne With Cauliflower Tomatoes & Basil
Description
This refreshing pasta dish is a perfect balance of textures and flavors, ideal for a light weeknight dinner. The star of the show is the creamy cauliflower, which absorbs the tangy, aromatic dressing made from fresh plum tomatoes, oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, and fragrant basil. It&# 226;ÂÂs a vegan-friendly meal that feels indulgent yet healthy. The combination of sweet cauliflower and savory, umami-rich tomatoes creates a deeply satisfying flavor profile. Serve it warm or at room temperature, making it a versatile option for potlucks or casual family gatherings. ItâÂÂs simple, quick, and bursting with Mediterranean-inspired freshness.Ingredients
Directions
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped plum tomatoes, green onions, fresh basil, olive oil, sun-dried tomatoes, and minced garlic. Toss thoroughly to create a uniform dressing.
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Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rapid boil over high heat.
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Add the penne pasta to the boiling water and cook until just almost tender, according to package instructions.
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Add the cauliflower florets to the pot with the pasta and continue cooking for about 3 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender-crisp.
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Drain the pasta and cauliflower well in a colander.
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Transfer the hot pasta and cauliflower into the bowl with the tomato mixture. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
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Taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as desired.
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Serve immediately, topped with fresh grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 21.6kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 0.2g1%
- Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 6.0mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 4.7g2%
- Dietary Fiber 1.4g6%
- Sugars 3.1g
- Protein 1.1g3%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
For a vegan version, omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute with a plant-based Parmesan alternative.
This dish can be served warm or at room temperature, making it a great option for meal prep or picnics.
If using dried pasta, ensure you reserve a splash of pasta water before draining; this can help emulsify the dressing if the mixture seems too dry.
Sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil add significant flavor; if using dry sun-dried tomatoes, rehydrate them in warm water for 10 minutes before chopping.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld further overnight.
