Creamy Goat Cheese and Arugula Penne: A Quick and Delicious Weeknight Meal

This recipe for Creamy Goat Cheese and Arugula Penne is a simple yet elegant dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a light lunch. The tangy goat cheese melts into a creamy sauce, perfectly complementing the peppery arugula and al dente penne pasta. It’s a dish that’s both satisfying and flavorful, and it comes together in under 30 minutes! This recipe is easily customizable too. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or protein to make it your own.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

* Quick and Easy: This recipe requires minimal prep time and cooks up in just minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
* Flavorful: The combination of creamy goat cheese, peppery arugula, and perfectly cooked penne creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
* Versatile: This dish can be easily adapted to your liking by adding different vegetables, proteins, or herbs.
* Impressive: Despite its simplicity, this pasta dish is elegant enough to serve to guests.
* Healthy-ish: While indulgent, this recipe incorporates fresh arugula and goat cheese, offering some nutritional benefits.

Ingredients:

* 1 pound penne pasta
* 4 ounces goat cheese, softened
* 1/4 cup olive oil
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
* 1/4 cup pasta water, reserved
* 5 ounces baby arugula
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
* Red pepper flakes (optional)
* Lemon zest (optional)
* Toasted pine nuts (optional, for garnish)

Equipment:

* Large pot
* Colander
* Large skillet or pan
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Garlic press (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining. Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.

*Why is reserving pasta water important?* Pasta water is full of starch, and that starch helps bind the sauce together. Think of it as liquid gold for pasta dishes! It helps create a creamier, more emulsified sauce.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this will make it bitter. If you’re using white wine, add it to the pan and let it simmer for a minute or two to reduce slightly. The alcohol will evaporate leaving behind the flavour. This step is optional, but it adds a nice depth of flavor to the sauce.

Step 3: Melt the Goat Cheese

Reduce the heat to low and add the softened goat cheese to the pan. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break up the goat cheese and stir it into the olive oil and garlic. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the goat cheese is melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a tablespoon or two of the reserved pasta water to thin it out. The goal is to have a creamy, slightly loose sauce.

*Tip for softer goat cheese:* Leaving the goat cheese out at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking makes it much easier to incorporate into the sauce. You can also microwave it for a few seconds, but be careful not to overheat it.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked penne pasta to the pan with the goat cheese sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Add the arugula and Parmesan cheese and toss again until the arugula is slightly wilted and the cheese is melted. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Serve the Creamy Goat Cheese and Arugula Penne immediately. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, a lemon zest and toasted pine nuts, if desired. Enjoy!

Tips and Variations:

* Add Protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage would be delicious additions to this dish. Simply cook the protein separately and add it to the pan along with the pasta.
* Add Vegetables: Sautéed mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted bell peppers would also be great additions. Add them to the pan along with the garlic.
* Use Different Herbs: Instead of or in addition to arugula, try adding fresh basil, parsley, or oregano.
* Make it Vegetarian: This recipe is already vegetarian, but you can make it vegan by using a vegan goat cheese alternative.
* Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
* Add Lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the flavors of this dish. Add it at the end, just before serving.
* Try Different Pasta Shapes: While penne works well, other pasta shapes like farfalle (bow tie), fusilli (spirals), or rigatoni would also be delicious.
* Nutty Goodness: Add toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a nice crunch and nutty flavor.
* Sweetness: A touch of honey or balsamic glaze can add a lovely touch of sweetness to balance the tanginess of the goat cheese.
* Make it Ahead: The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it gently before adding the pasta.

Serving Suggestions:

This Creamy Goat Cheese and Arugula Penne is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few suggestions:

* Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette.
* Garlic Bread: Crusty garlic bread for soaking up the delicious sauce.
* Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts.
* Tomato Soup: A classic pairing with pasta.
* Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, and garlic.

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

* Calories: 550-650
* Protein: 20-25g
* Fat: 25-35g
* Carbohydrates: 60-70g

*Disclaimer:* Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

How to Store Leftovers:

Store leftover Creamy Goat Cheese and Arugula Penne in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave. You may need to add a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce.

*A Note on Goat Cheese:* There are many different types of goat cheese available, from mild and creamy to strong and tangy. Choose a goat cheese that you enjoy the flavor of. If you’re not a fan of strong goat cheese, look for a milder variety. You can also use a combination of goat cheese and cream cheese to mellow out the flavor.

Variations on the Recipe: Making it Your Own

The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Here are some more detailed ideas for customizing the dish to suit your preferences:

* Mediterranean Twist: Add Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and a sprinkle of oregano for a Mediterranean flair.
* Spring Vegetable Medley: Incorporate asparagus, peas, and fava beans for a fresh, seasonal dish.
* Smoked Salmon Addition: Flake in some smoked salmon at the end for a luxurious and flavorful upgrade.
* Mushroom Lover’s Delight: Sauté a mix of your favorite mushrooms (cremini, shiitake, oyster) with the garlic for an earthy flavor.
* Spicy Chorizo Kick: Add diced chorizo to the pan with the garlic for a smoky and spicy dimension.
* Pesto Power: Swirl in a spoonful of pesto at the end for an extra boost of flavor and vibrancy.
* Roasted Garlic Goodness: Use roasted garlic instead of fresh garlic for a sweeter, milder flavor.
* Ricotta Cheese Variation: Replace half of the goat cheese with ricotta cheese for a creamier, less tangy sauce.
* Lemon-Garlic Shrimp: Sauté shrimp with lemon juice and garlic and add it to the pasta for a light and refreshing meal.
* Chicken and Broccoli: Add cooked chicken and steamed broccoli florets for a heartier and more substantial dish.

Troubleshooting Tips:

* Sauce Too Thick: Add a tablespoon or two of reserved pasta water or milk to thin it out.
* Sauce Too Thin: Simmer the sauce for a few minutes to allow it to thicken.
* Goat Cheese Not Melting: Make sure the goat cheese is softened before adding it to the pan. You can also add a splash of milk or cream to help it melt.
* Pasta Sticking Together: Toss the pasta with a little olive oil after draining to prevent it from sticking.
* Arugula Wilting Too Much: Add the arugula at the very end, just before serving, to prevent it from wilting too much.

Final Thoughts:

This Creamy Goat Cheese and Arugula Penne is a testament to the fact that delicious food doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a flavorful and satisfying meal that everyone will love. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to enjoy this delightful pasta dish!

Enjoy experimenting with different variations and finding your own perfect combination of flavors. Happy cooking!