Shabby Chic Boho The holidays just have a certain magic, don’t they? Strings of lights everywhere, mugs of something warm in your hands, and the buzz of family and friends crammed around the table. I always think food sets the mood, and nothing does it better than a big, festive bowl of pasta, something that feels cozy, a little luxurious, and just right for sharing.
This year, I’ve got a pasta recipe I can’t stop making. It’s easy, packed with flavor, and thanks to Flower Chef Foods, everyone can dig in. Their penne and shells are loaded with protein, totally gluten-free, and safe for just about anyone with allergies. They cook up just right; saucy, chewy, and satisfying. You get that perfect al dente bite every time.
Here’s my go-to: Garden-Fresh Holiday Penne with Herby Tomato-Garlic Sauce. It’s bright, packed with herbs, and comes together fast so you can actually relax during the holidays instead of camping out in the kitchen. Plus, you can toss in whatever you’ve got in the fridge: roasted veggies, fresh spinach, a dusting of vegan cheese. Make it yours.
Ingredients (serves 4)
1 lb Flower Chef Foods penne
Salt
2–3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes or jar tomato sauce
1 tsp Italian seasoning (or dried basil, oregano, thyme)
Pinch red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat)
Salt and black pepper
Fresh basil for topping
Grated Parmesan or vegan cheese, optional
How to make it
Start by boiling a big pot of salted water. Toss in the penne and cook until it’s almost al dente, it’ll finish up in the sauce.
While the pasta bubbles away, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium. Add the onion and cook until soft, then throw in the garlic and let it get fragrant.
Pour in the crushed tomatoes. Stir in your Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 8–10 minutes so the flavors come together.
Before you drain the pasta, scoop out half a cup of the pasta water. Drain the pasta and add it right into your skillet of sauce. Splash in some of that reserved water to help the sauce coat every piece.
Taste, adjust the seasoning, and you’re done. Top with plenty of fresh basil and a shower of cheese if you want.
What makes this recipe a holiday winner?
The sauce is rich and garlicky but still light, so it works with whatever sides you’ve got lined up.
Flower Chef Foods pasta means nobody at your table has to miss out; it’s gluten-free, high in protein, and allergen-friendly.
You can switch things up with roasted veggies, extra cheese, or festive toppings. It’s your call.
Honestly, nothing feels more like the holidays than sharing a pasta dinner that everyone loves. Serve it with a crisp salad, some garlicky bread, and your favorite playlist in the background. That’s a celebration right there.
