Penne With Arugula In Tomato-Cream Sauce

This quick weeknight dinner combines tender penne with a rich, velvety tomato-cream sauce. Salty prosciutto adds a savory depth, while fresh arugula provides a peppery crunch and bright color. The sauce comes together in minutes, coating the pasta beautifully. It is an elegant yet simple dish that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen. Perfect for busy evenings when you crave comfort food with a touch of sophistication.

Cooking Method: Boiling, Stewing

Cuisine: Italian

Courses: Sauces & Condiments

Difficulty: Intermediate

Servings: 4

Calories: 201.4

Description

This quick weeknight dinner combines tender penne with a rich, velvety tomato-cream sauce. Salty prosciutto adds a savory depth, while fresh arugula provides a peppery crunch and bright color. The sauce comes together in minutes, coating the pasta beautifully. It is an elegant yet simple dish that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen. Perfect for busy evenings when you crave comfort food with a touch of sophistication.

Ingredients

1 lb Penne pasta
3 ounce Prosciutto, finely diced
1 3/4 cup Basic tomato sauce
1 cup Heavy cream
3 ounces Arugula, stemmed and chopped
to taste Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Directions

1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes according to package directions.
2
While the pasta cooks, place a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced prosciutto and tomato sauce.
3
Heat the sauce, stirring occasionally, until it comes to a simmer. Maintain a gentle simmer for 3 to 4 minutes to meld the flavors.
4
Pour in the heavy cream and stir until fully blended with the tomato sauce. Simmer gently for 1 minute.
5
Stir in the chopped arugula and cook just until wilted, about 1 minute.
6
Drain the pasta, shaking the colander well to remove excess water.
7
Add the drained penne to the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly.
8
Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
9
Transfer immediately to a heated serving bowl or individual plates. Serve warm.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

Amount Per Serving
Calories 201.4kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 5.8g9%
Saturated Fat 1.8g9%
Cholesterol 41.2mg14%
Sodium 1722.9mg72%
Total Carbohydrate 6.7g3%
Dietary Fiber 1.6g7%
Sugars 3.8g
Protein 29.9g60%

* 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

Do not overcook the arugula; it should retain some texture and vibrant green color.

Serve immediately as pasta dishes with cream sauce tend to cool and thicken quickly.

For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream, though the sauce will be less rich.

If you prefer a stronger flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce while simmering.

Keywords: penne pasta, arugula, prosciutto, tomato cream sauce, italian dinner, quick pasta, easy recipe, weeknight meal, creamy pasta, pasta primavera, vegetable pasta, comfort food

Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/penne-with-arugula-in-tomato-cream-sauce/