Vegetable Pasta
Pasta is a beloved dish worldwide, and adding
vegetables makes it both nutritious and delicious. This easy-to-make vegetable
pasta recipe is packed with vibrant colors, rich flavors, and wholesome
ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a special
dish for guests, this recipe will satisfy your cravings while keeping things
healthy.
Ingredients
For this vegetable pasta recipe, you’ll need the
following ingredients:
Pasta:
- 250g (2 cups) penne, fusilli, or spaghetti
- 1 teaspoon salt (for boiling water)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (to prevent sticking)
Vegetables:
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or green), sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced
- 1 small carrot, julienned
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cups spinach or kale, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce &
Seasoning:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes or 1 cup tomato puree
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
- ¼ cup vegetable broth or water
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for added flavor)
Garnish:
- ¼ cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (for freshness)
Step-by-Step
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the
Pasta
1.
Bring a large pot of
water to a boil. Add 1 teaspoon of salt.
2.
Add pasta and cook
according to package instructions (usually 8-10 minutes) until al dente.
3.
Drain the pasta and
toss it with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the
Vegetables
1.
While the pasta is
cooking, chop all the vegetables.
2.
Heat 2 tablespoons
of olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat.
3.
Add the chopped
onions and sauté until translucent (about 2 minutes).
4.
Stir in the garlic
and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
5.
Add the carrots and
bell peppers. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened.
6.
Add the zucchini and
mushrooms. Cook for another 3 minutes until tender.
7.
Stir in the cherry
tomatoes and cook for 2 minutes until they start to break down.
Step 3: Make the
Sauce
1.
Pour in the diced
tomatoes or tomato puree.
2.
Add dried oregano,
basil, chili flakes (if using), black pepper, salt, sugar, and paprika.
3.
Stir in the
vegetable broth or water and let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes.
4.
Add the spinach or
kale and stir until wilted.
5.
Taste and adjust
seasoning as needed.
Step 4: Combine
Pasta and Vegetables
1.
Add the cooked pasta
to the vegetable sauce.
2.
Toss everything
together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
3.
Let it cook for
another 2 minutes to absorb the flavors.
4.
Squeeze in a
teaspoon of lemon juice for freshness.
Step 5: Serve and
Garnish
1.
Remove from heat and
serve immediately.
2.
Sprinkle fresh basil
or parsley on top.
3.
Add grated Parmesan
cheese if desired.
4.
Enjoy your homemade
vegetable pasta!
Tips for the Best
Vegetable Pasta
- Use Fresh Ingredients:
Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance flavor and texture.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta:
Cooking pasta al dente ensures the best texture.
- Balance Flavors:
Adjust seasoning to taste, adding a bit of sugar to reduce tomato acidity.
- Add Protein: For a protein
boost, add grilled chicken, shrimp, tofu, or chickpeas.
- Make It Creamy: Stir in a
splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese.
- Store Leftovers Properly:
Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.