Penne Pasta is a versatile and beloved shape, and its hollow centre makes it great for holding sauces.
Here are some classic and popular combinations for penne pasta:
Arrabbiata Sauce is a spicy tomato-based sauce with garlic, red chilli flakes, and sometimes added herbs like parsley. Tomato and Basil Sauce: this is a simple tomato sauce with fresh basil, garlic, and a drizzle of olive oil. Puttanesca Sauce is a flavorful sauce with tomatoes, olives, capers, garlic, and anchovies. Genovese Pesto is a classic pesto sauce made with fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Vodka Sauce is a creamy tomato sauce with a splash of vodka, often enriched with heavy cream.
Remember, the key is to keep the pasta al dente, which means it should be cooked until it's tender but still has a firm bite.
The debate between striped and smooth penne is primarily a matter of personal preference. The ridges in striped penne help sauces adhere better, providing a more textured experience. However, some prefer the smooth version for a sleeker feel. It's fascinating how pasta preferences can vary even within close-knit families!
