Pasta Recipe
Vegetable pasta is a versatile and wholesome dish that combines the comforting elements of pasta with the freshness and nutrition of assorted vegetables. It’s an excellent way to incorporate more veggies into your diet while enjoying a satisfying meal. Below is a detailed recipe for a flavorful vegetable pasta that you can prepare in about 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
- Pasta: 400 grams (14 ounces) of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
- Vegetables: A mix totaling about 4 cups, such as:
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced
- 1 medium yellow squash, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup baby spinach leaves
- Dried Italian herbs: 1 teaspoon (a blend of oregano, basil, and thyme)
- Red pepper flakes: ¼ teaspoon (optional, for a hint of heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste
- Vegetable broth or pasta water: ½ cup
- Fresh basil or parsley: ¼ cup, chopped
- Parmesan cheese: ½ cup, grated (optional, omit for a vegan version)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Before draining, reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water.
- Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and chopped onion.
- Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
- Add the Vegetables:
- Add the sliced zucchini, yellow squash, red bell pepper, and broccoli florets to the pan.
- Sprinkle with the dried Italian herbs, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper.
- Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
- Incorporate Tomatoes and Spinach:
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the pan.
- Cook for 2 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Add the baby spinach leaves.
- Stir until the spinach wilts.
- Combine with Pasta:
- Reduce the heat to low.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the vegetables.
- Pour in the reserved pasta water or vegetable broth to help bind the sauce.
- Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
- Finish the Dish:
- Stir in the chopped fresh basil or parsley.
- If using, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve:
- Divide the vegetable pasta among serving plates.
- Garnish with extra herbs or cheese as desired.
- Serve warm.
Tips and Variations:
- Vegetable Selection: Feel free to use any vegetables you have on hand or what’s in season. Other great additions include asparagus, peas.
- Creamy Version: To make a creamy vegetable pasta, add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese when combining the pasta with the vegetables. For a vegan alternative, use coconut cream or a cashew-based cream.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary preferences or restrictions.
This vegetable pasta is not only delicious but also customizable to suit your taste and the ingredients you have available. It’s a perfect choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal to impress guests with its vibrant colors and fresh flavors
