flavorful tomato penne with broccoli, radish, and peas

     I don't think there is any comfort food more comforting than pasta. It's so versatile - the amount of different pasta dishes that exist are countless. Each one is just as comforting as the last!

     The last few weeks have been pretty hard on me, so pasta for dinner just had to happen. And, especially when I'm feeling stressed, it feels so easy and care-free to know that pasta goes with anything. I literally just checked out what was in my fridge/pantry and threw it together. This ended up being a fantastic combo, so I hope you give it a shot!

     To add to the comfort of this meal, the prep is actually pretty relaxing. Featuring shell peas, I was opening pods and taking the peas out with ease. It's amazing how soothing and therapeutic that can be! This dish also features rosemary infused olive oil, which makes your house/apartment smell heavenly, especially if you are making it from scratch.

     So next time you need some comfort and relaxation, turn to pasta. Specifically this pasta. It hits the spot! 

Flavorful Tomato Penne with Broccoli, Radish, and Peas
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 2 people


You Will Need:

• 1/2 lb mezze penne pasta
• 2 TBS + 1 TBS rosemary infused olive oil*
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 cup small broccoli florets
• 3/4 cup diced radish
• 1/4 cup shelled peas
• 1 TBS white wine vinegar
• salt, to taste

*To make your own rosemary infused olive oil real quick, simply heat some olive oil on low on the stove with sprigs of rosemary in it until very fragrant, about 20 minutes. If you have some time, heat for just 5-10 minutes and then pour into a new bottle including the sprigs and refrigerate overnight. Aim for 6 sprigs per cup of olive oil.

1. In a medium pot, cook your pasta according to packaging instructions in heavily salted water until al dente. When complete, drain, reserving 1/4 cup of the cooking liquid. 
2. Meanwhile, in a large saute pan, add 2 TBS rosemary olive oil, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Cook on medium-low for about 30 seconds, stirring.
3. Add radish and broccoli to the pan. Cook, tossing occasionally, for about 10 minutes. Around the 5 minute mark add a 1/4 cup of water to steam the veggies somewhat.
4. Add the peas and continue to cook for an additional 3 minutes.
5. Lower the heat from medium-low to low and add the tomato paste. Toss to coat and let cook for another 3 minutes.
6. Add the drained penne and cooking liquid to the pan, being sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan (that is flavor, people!). 
7. Add the white wine vinegar and additional 1 TBS of rosemary olive oil and stir. Add salt to taste. Serve warm.

What is your favorite comforting pasta combination?