To start, you will need:
– 1 pound of penne pasta
– 2 bunches of fresh spinach
– 2 cups of fresh basil leaves
– 4 garlic cloves
– 1/2 cup of pine nuts
– 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup of olive oil
– 1/4 cup of Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup of crumbled goat cheese
– Salt and black pepper to taste
First, cook the penne in a large pot of salted water according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
While the pasta cooks, prepare the green sauce. Wash the spinach and basil leaves and roughly chop them. Peel and crush the garlic cloves. In a food processor, combine the spinach, basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Pulse until a and bright green paste forms. Add salt and pepper to taste.
In a large skillet, heat the green sauce over medium-low heat. Add the Greek yogurt and whisk until everything is well combined. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is heated through.
Add the cooked penne to the green sauce and toss to coat. Crumble the goat cheese on top and stir gently to distribute it. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of pasta cooking water to thin it out.
Serve the penne with green sauce and goat cheese hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and freshly ground black pepper.
What makes this penne recipe so special is the combination of flavors and textures. The green sauce is incredibly fresh and vibrant, thanks to the spinach and basil leaves. The garlic adds depth, while the pine nuts provide a satisfying crunch. The Greek yogurt tempers the sauce’s richness and gives it a tangy note. Finally, the creamy and tangy goat cheese adds a luxurious finishing touch.
This recipe is also quite healthy, as it’s loaded with leafy greens and healthy fats from the olive oil and nuts. However, if you’re looking to make it even lighter, you can swap the penne for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta. You can also use less goat cheese or omit it altogether if you prefer a vegan version.
Penne with green sauce and goat cheese is a versatile dish that can be served for lunch, dinner, or even brunch. It pairs well with a variety of sides, such as a simple green salad or roasted vegetables. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, although we doubt it will last that long.
In conclusion, if you love pasta and are looking for a quick and easy recipe that doesn’t skimp on flavor, penne with green sauce and goat cheese is the one for you. It’s delicious, healthy, and satisfying, and we guarantee it will become a staple in your recipe rotation. Bon appétit!