Heart-Healthy Penne Pasta with Tomato Sauce and Parmesan Cheese

Treat yourself to a comforting yet nutritious meal with our Heart-Healthy Penne Pasta with Tomato Sauce and Parmesan Cheese. This recipe features whole-grain penne pasta tossed in a vibrant, homemade tomato sauce that's brimming with the goodness of fresh tomatoes, garlic, red onion, and baby spinach. Infused with aromatic basil, oregano, and a touch of crushed red pepper for subtle heat, this dish is both flavorful and heart-smart. A light sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds a savory finish without overpowering the dish's wholesome character. Low-sodium vegetable broth ensures a guilt-free, rich sauce, while extra virgin olive oil delivers healthy fats. Ready in just 40 minutes, this Mediterranean-inspired meal is an easy, delicious way to support your heart health and satisfy the whole family. Ideal for weeknight dinners or any time you're craving a hearty but wholesome pasta dish!

Nutriscore Rating: 77/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 12 ounces whole-grain penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 3 units garlic cloves, minced
• 1 medium red onion, chopped
• 4 large fresh tomatoes, diced
• 10 leaves basil leaves, fresh
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 0.5 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 cup low-sodium vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 cups baby spinach
• 0 to taste salt
• 0 to taste black pepper, freshly ground

Directions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and the whole-grain penne pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.

Step 2

Meanwhile, heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped red onion, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent.

Step 3

Add the diced tomatoes to the skillet, stirring occasionally, and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and release their juices.

Step 4

Stir in the basil leaves, dried oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for another 2 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Step 5

Pour in the low-sodium vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow the sauce to cook for 10 minutes, reducing slightly.

Step 6

Stir in the baby spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.

Step 7

Season the tomato sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Step 8

Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.

Step 9

Divide the pasta among four plates. Top each serving with a light sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

Step 10

Serve immediately and enjoy your heart-healthy meal!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1032.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1613.9

Total Fat 40.2g	0%
Saturated Fat 7.8g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat g
Cholesterol 10mg	0%
Sodium 2749.9mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 282.5g	0%
Dietary Fiber 31.2g	0%
Total Sugars 18.9g
Protein 53.9g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 336.6mg	0%
Iron 16.2mg	0%
Potassium 1778.3mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 21.2%

Protein: 12.6%

Carbs: 66.2%