The first time I saw the name of this dish, strascicata, on a restaurant menu, I was sure that my less-than-perfect knowledge of Italian had failed me. Strascinare means “to drag,” an odd thing to do to pasta. But the waiter explained that the chef had cooked the pasta in the sauce, stirring, or “dragging,” it and adding more liquid as it cooked. The technique is similar to making risotto. The pasta becomes infused with the sauce and develops a creamy texture from the starch it releases as it is stirred. Like risotto, this method does require a fair amount of stirring, so plan to stay close to the stove. On the up side, you will need to wash only one pot.

One-Pot “Dragged” Penne is a simple and convenient pasta dish that comes together in just one pot, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a quick and easy meal. The penne pasta is cooked directly in a flavorful marinara sauce, infusing it with rich tomato flavors. This dish eliminates the need for boiling pasta separately, saving you time and reducing the number of dishes to clean. With the addition of freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, each bite is creamy, satisfying, and bursting with deliciousness. One-Pot “Dragged” Penne is a delightful option when you crave a comforting pasta dish without the hassle of multiple pots and pans.

Serves 4

INGREDIENTS

• 1 cup Marinara Sauce
• 8 ounces penne
• About 2 cups water
• Salt
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Heat the sauce in a 10-inch skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the penne and stir to coat with the sauce.
3. Stir in 2 cups water and bring to a simmer.
4. Cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce is reduced and thickened and the pasta is al dente; if necessary, add more water to prevent the pasta from sticking.
5. Add salt to taste.
6. Stir in the cheese.
7. Serve immediately.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

• Serve the One-Pot “Dragged” Penne as a main course for a quick and satisfying dinner.
• Pair it with a fresh green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Sprinkle some extra grated Parmigiano-Reggiano on top for an added cheesy goodness.
• Accompany the dish with garlic bread or crusty Italian bread to mop up the delicious sauce.
• Add a side of steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or asparagus, for a well-rounded meal.
• Serve with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Sangiovese, to complement the rich flavors of the marinara sauce.
• Garnish with fresh basil leaves or chopped parsley for a pop of color and an herbaceous aroma.
• Consider serving it family-style, allowing everyone to help themselves directly from the pot for a casual and interactive dining experience.
• Leftovers can be enjoyed the next day for lunch or dinner, reheated gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.