Ingredients
- 1 (16 ounce) package penne pasta (such as Barilla® Plus)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 yellow squash, sliced and quartered
- 1 zucchini, sliced and quartered
- ½ teaspoon minced garlic
- ½ (16 ounce) bottle light Parmesan-peppercorn dressing (such as Cains®)
- salt and ground black pepper to taste
Why This Dish Is Hard To Resist
Fresh and vibrant, packed with colorful vegetables that add both flavor and nutrition. It’s a lighter option that doesn’t sacrifice taste, making it perfect for a healthy weeknight meal. Plus, it comes together quickly, so you can enjoy a delicious dinner without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Pro Cooking Tips
- Use pasta made from whole grains or legumes for added fiber and protein.
- Don’t overcook the vegetables; keep them slightly crisp to retain their nutrients and texture.
- Reserve some pasta water to loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick.
- Don’t overcook the vegetables; keep them slightly crisp to retain their nutrients and texture.
- Reserve some pasta water to loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick.
Step 1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook it until it’s just tender but still has a bit of bite, about 11 minutes. Once it’s done, drain the pasta and transfer it to a big bowl.
Step 2
While the pasta is cooking, heat some olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in the yellow squash, zucchini, and garlic, and sauté everything until the veggies are tender, which should take around 5 minutes. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Step 3
Add the cooked vegetables to the pasta, pour in the dressing, and give everything a good toss to combine. This dish is delicious served warm or chilled, so feel free to enjoy it however you like!
How To Serve This Dish
Serve this dish with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or a handful of chopped fresh herbs like basil or parsley. A side salad or some crusty whole-grain bread can complement the meal nicely. For extra protein, add grilled chicken or shrimp on top.
Proper Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the pasta from drying out. This dish is best enjoyed fresh but still tastes great reheated.
