Looking for a quick and delicious meal that will leave your taste buds dancing? Dive into the world of Italian comfort food with our Creamy Red Lentil Penne Skillet! This delightful dish combines the heartiness of red lentils with the richness of heavy cream, all tossed together with perfectly cooked penne pasta. In just 25 minutes, you can serve up a satisfying meal that not only pleases the palate but is also packed with nutrients. Ready to impress your family or guests? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup red lentils
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse the red lentils thoroughly under cold water to remove any debris, then drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and release the aromatic flavors.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and add the rinsed red lentils to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the penne pasta to the skillet and stir to combine with the lentils and broth. Cover and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is nearly al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir thoroughly to create a creamy sauce. Reduce heat to low and continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- Remove from heat and let the skillet sit for 2 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Plate and enjoy the creamy, comforting dish while hot.
Tips
- Rinse the Lentils: Always rinse your red lentils thoroughly to ensure they are clean and to remove any impurities. This simple step enhances the overall flavor of your dish.
- Sautéing is Key: When cooking the onions and garlic, make sure to sauté them until they are golden and fragrant. This builds a flavorful base for your creamy sauce.
- Monitor the Pasta: Keep an eye on the penne pasta as it cooks in the skillet. You want it to be nearly al dente before adding the heavy cream, as it will continue to cook and absorb flavors.
- Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick after adding the cream, feel free to add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
- Garnish Generously: Don’t skip the fresh parsley! It adds a burst of color and freshness that elevates the dish visually and flavor-wise.
- Make it Your Own: Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins, such as spinach, cherry tomatoes, or grilled chicken, for an extra twist!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 520kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 75mg
