Istanbul Penne Medley

About Istanbul Penne Medley

The Istanbul Penne Medley is a delightful fusion dish that combines the rich, aromatic flavors of Turkish cuisine with the comforting texture of Italian pasta. This dish draws inspiration from the vibrant culinary landscape of Istanbul, where East meets West and traditional flavors blend seamlessly with modern influences.

History

While pasta is primarily associated with Italian cooking, its variations have permeated many diverse cuisines, including that of Turkey. As a result of Istanbul's historical role as a significant hub on the Silk Road and a melting pot of cultures, many culinary techniques and ingredients have been exchanged, leading to innovative dishes like the Istanbul Penne Medley.

Ingredients

• Penne pasta - 400 grams
• Olive oil - 3 tablespoons
• Onion - 1, finely chopped
• Garlic - 3 cloves, minced
• Red bell pepper - 1, diced
• Tomatoes - 2 large, chopped
• Kofte spice - 2 teaspoons
• Chicken breast - 250 grams, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Parsley - 1/4 cup, chopped
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste
• Lemon - 1, juiced
• Feta cheese - 100 grams, crumbled

Preparation

Before you start with the cooking, gather and prepare all your ingredients. This includes finely chopping the onion, mincing the garlic, dicing the red bell pepper, and cutting the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Chop the parsley as well. Ensure your penne pasta is measured out, and you have your spices and lemon juice ready.

Cooking Process

Step 1: Cooking the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This should take about 10-12 minutes. Use a cooking timer to help keep track. Once cooked, drain and set aside.

Step 2: Preparing the Sauce

While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

Add the red bell pepper and chopped tomatoes to the skillet, stirring occasionally until the vegetables have softened and the tomatoes are beginning to break down, about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Cooking the Chicken

Incorporate the chicken pieces into the skillet. Season with salt, black pepper, and kofte spice. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 4: Combining Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained penne to the skillet with the chicken and vegetables. Toss everything together to ensure the pasta is well-coated with the sauce.

Step 5: Final Touches

Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the parsley and the juice of a lemon. Adjust seasoning with more salt and black pepper if needed.

Sprinkle the dish with feta cheese before serving.

Enjoying Istanbul Penne Medley

Serve the Istanbul Penne Medley warm, perhaps with a side of crusty bread and a refreshing salad. The dish is perfect for a comforting lunch or dinner, providing a delicious taste of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors combined. Pair it with a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with a slice of lemon for a refreshing balance.