Tomato Fennel Pasta
If you're craving a flavorful and easy-to-make meal, this Tomato Fennel Pasta should be at the top of your list. This recipe is perfect for those seeking a comforting, savory dish with a hint of licorice from fennel and a bit of spice from the chili pepper flakes.
4 people
Calories: 445kcal
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 fennel bulb thinly sliced (reserve the fronds for garnish)
- 1 onion sliced
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 28 oz pureed tomatoes canned
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
- 12 oz pasta bucatoni, spaghetti, or any pasta of choice
- Freshly grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast for a plant-based option
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the sliced fennel and onion and cook for about 5-7 minutes until soft and slightly caramelized. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the red pepper flakes, the fennel seeds and a big pinch of salt.
- Stir in the pureed tomatoes and bring to a simmer, cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the cooked pasta to the pan with the sauce. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
- Garnish with fennel fronds, Parmesan (or nutritional yeast), and a drizzle of olive oil if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or olive oil to revive the sauce, and warm on the stovetop or microwave.
- Be sure to cook it al dente so it retains its texture when mixed with the sauce.
- Reserved pasta water is your best friend! The starchy water helps to bind the sauce to the pasta, making the dish extra creamy and delicious.
Nutrition
Serving: 1serging | Calories: 445kcal | Carbohydrates: 86g | Protein: 16g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Sodium: 304mg | Potassium: 1076mg | Fiber: 9g | Sugar: 15g | Vitamin A: 581IU | Vitamin C: 28mg | Calcium: 131mg | Iron: 4mg