Italian Penne Pasta Salad Recipes

PASTA AND LENTILS (PASTA E LENTICCHIE)

Steps:

• In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium-high. Add the onion and garlic, season with salt and pepper, and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and tender, 5 to 7 minutes. Add 5 cups of water, the lentils, the thyme and bay leaves (if using). Partially cover, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, partially covered, until the lentils are al dente, 25 to 30 minutes.
• Add the tomatoes and 1 teaspoon salt, and bring to a boil over high. Add the pasta and cook, stirring often to keep the pasta from sticking to the pot, until the pasta is al dente, 10 to 20 minutes. (It may take longer than the cook time on the package.) If the pot starts to look dry at any point, add more water, 1/4 cup at a time.
• Turn off the heat, discard the thyme and bay leaves, then stir in the Parmesan. Cover and let sit for 3 minutes so the flavors meld and the sauce thickens. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Eat with more Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil.

PENNE PASTA SALAD

Steps:

• Cook pasta according to package directions; drain and rinse in cold water. Meanwhile, combine tomatoes, green pepper, onions and olives. Stir in pasta. Combine remaining ingredients; pour over salad and toss to coat. Cover; refrigerate at least 2 hours before serving.

COPYCAT PASTA DA VINCI

Steps:

• Cook pasta according to package directions for al dente. Meanwhile, in a large skillet cook onion in oil over medium heat until softened, 4-5 minutes. Add garlic, cook 1 minute longer. Stir in chicken and mushrooms. Cook, stirring frequently, until chicken is no longer pink, 5-7 minutes. With a slotted spoon, remove mixture; set aside. , To the same skillet, add wine and broth; bring mixture to a simmer. Cook until liquid is reduced by half, 15-20 minutes. Reduce heat to low; add cream cheese and butter, whisking until melted. Whisk in cream, salt and pepper. Add chicken mixture to pan; heat through on low. Toss with pasta and 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese. Top with remaining 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese and if desired, parsley.

PENNE PASTA SALAD

Steps:

• In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook pasta until al dente, rinse under cold water and drain.
• In a large bowl, mix together the salad dressing, mustard, cheese and dill.
• Add pasta, red onion and bell peppers. Toss well; season with salt and pepper. Chill before serving.