A Penne for Your Thoughts
Enjoy a healthy, low-fat penne pasta recipe packed with sundried tomatoes, spinach, mushrooms, and turkey bacon. Packed with veggies and ready in about 30 minutes!
YIELD
4 servingsPREP
10 minCOOK
20 minREADY
30 minPro Tips
- Prevent Sticking: Toss the drained pasta with a drizzle of olive oil if it sits before combining with the vegetables to avoid clumping.
- Bacon Crispness: Chop turkey bacon before cooking for even crisping and faster prep.
- Spice Control: Red pepper flakes add a mild kick. Start with ¼ tsp if sensitive to heat, or omit for a milder flavor.
- Cheese Boost: For a creamier texture, mix in ¼ cup low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt before serving.
Optional Variations
- Protein Boost: Add 1 cup cooked chicken breast or white beans for extra protein.
- Vegan Twist: Swap turkey bacon for ½ cup smoked tofu or tempeh, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free penne to accommodate dietary restrictions.
- Greener Option: Double the spinach or add 1 cup chopped kale for more greens.
Ingredients
Directions
- Prepare Sundried Tomatoes: Place sundried tomatoes in a heatproof bowl. Pour 1 cup boiling water over them and soak for 5 minutes. Drain, chop, and set aside.
- Cook Mushrooms: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine mushrooms with ¼ cup water. Microwave on high for 5 minutes. Drain and set aside. (Alternatively, sauté mushrooms in a skillet with a splash of water until tender, about 5 minutes.)
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and keep warm.
- Cook Bacon: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook chopped turkey bacon until crisp, about 4-5 minutes. Remove bacon to a plate, leaving drippings in the skillet.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Combine Vegetables: Add red onion, spinach, chopped sundried tomatoes, cooked mushrooms, basil, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes until onions are soft and spinach is wilted.
- Toss Together: Return bacon to the skillet. Add cooked penne and toss gently to combine, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated with the vegetable mixture.
- Serve: Divide pasta among 4 plates. Top each with a grind of black pepper, ½ tbsp Parmesan cheese, and a sprinkle of parsley. Serve immediately.
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