Penne Alla Malefemmina*

Penne Alla Malefemmina is a bright, zesty pasta dish that celebrates the bold flavors of the Mediterranean. The combination of juicy marinated tomatoes, briny kalamata olives, and punchy capers creates a complex sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta. Garlic and fresh basil add aromatic depth, while a hint of red pepper flakes provides a gentle warmth. This vegan-friendly meal is incredibly quick to assemble, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual summer dinners. The acidity from the tomatoes and capers cuts through the richness of the olive oil, resulting in a balanced, satisfying dish that feels both comforting and fresh. Serve it immediately to enjoy the contrast of warm pasta and cool, marinated vegetables.

Cooking Method: Boiling

Cuisine: American

Courses: Main Courses

Difficulty: Beginner

Servings: 4

Calories: 882.6

Dietary: Vegan, Vegetarian

Description

Penne Alla Malefemmina is a bright, zesty pasta dish that celebrates the bold flavors of the Mediterranean. The combination of juicy marinated tomatoes, briny kalamata olives, and punchy capers creates a complex sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta. Garlic and fresh basil add aromatic depth, while a hint of red pepper flakes provides a gentle warmth. This vegan-friendly meal is incredibly quick to assemble, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual summer dinners. The acidity from the tomatoes and capers cuts through the richness of the olive oil, resulting in a balanced, satisfying dish that feels both comforting and fresh. Serve it immediately to enjoy the contrast of warm pasta and cool, marinated vegetables.

Ingredients

3/4 lb Penne pasta
1/4 cup Extra virgin olive oil
1 cup Tomatoes, coarsely chopped
20 Kalamata Olives, pitted and halved
1 tbsp Capers, drained and halved
5 cloves Garlic, chopped
1/4 cup Basil leaves
1/2 tsp Red pepper flakes
to taste Salt

Directions

1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
2
While the pasta cooks, combine the chopped tomatoes, halved olives, halved capers, chopped garlic, red pepper flakes, and half of the basil leaves in a large bowl.
3
Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil over the tomato and olive mixture. Season with salt to taste and toss gently to marinate. Let sit for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4
Drain the cooked penne and add it to the bowl with the marinated vegetables. Toss thoroughly to coat the pasta evenly.
5
If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to create a light sauce. Serve immediately, garnished with the remaining basil leaves.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

Amount Per Serving
Calories 882.6kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 105.0g162%
Saturated Fat 57.1g286%
Cholesterol 235.0mg79%
Sodium 105.0mg5%
Total Carbohydrate 14.0g5%
Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
Sugars 14.0g
Protein 7.5g15%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Keywords: penne, pasta, vegan, tomatoes, olives, capers, garlic, basil, mediterranean, quick dinner, weeknight meal, plant-based, italian-inspired, red pepper flakes, kalamata, olive oil, marinated, herbs, chilies

Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/penne-alla-malefemmina/