Spaghetti Pasta Recipe Vegetarian: Easy & Delicious Ideas

Spaghetti is a beloved classic that’s simple, comforting, and endlessly versatile. For vegetarians and those looking to enjoy a hearty plant-based meal, this vegetarian spaghetti pasta recipe offers a delightful way to indulge in rich flavors without any meat.

Using fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and a flavorful tomato sauce, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. It’s not only delicious but also packed with wholesome nutrients that satisfy both body and soul.

The best part? This recipe is incredibly easy to customize depending on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just trying to eat more plants, this spaghetti recipe will quickly become a family favorite. Plus, it pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes and is a fantastic base for experimenting with different sauces and toppings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian spaghetti pasta recipe is a perfect blend of simplicity and flavor. The fresh vegetables add texture and color, while the tomato sauce brings a vibrant tanginess that ties everything together.

It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s ready in under 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy lifestyles.

Moreover, the recipe is flexible, allowing you to swap ingredients or add your favorite veggies. It’s also budget-friendly and uses pantry staples that you likely already have.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this recipe delivers satisfying comfort food with nutritious benefits.

Ingredients

• 12 oz spaghetti pasta
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium zucchini, diced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• Grated Parmesan cheese or vegan alternative for serving (optional)

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Colander for draining pasta
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring spoons and cups

Instructions

1. Cook the spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
2. Sauté the vegetables: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add bell pepper, zucchini, and mushrooms: Stir in the diced vegetables and cook for another 5-7 minutes until they are tender but still slightly crisp.
4. Prepare the sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then add dried oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Toss pasta with sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the sauce and vegetables. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if needed to loosen the sauce.
6. Finish with fresh basil: Stir in the chopped fresh basil leaves for a burst of bright, herbal flavor just before serving.
7. Serve: Plate the spaghetti and top with grated Parmesan or your favorite vegan cheese alternative. Enjoy immediately!

Tips & Variations

“To make this dish even more nutrient-packed, consider adding spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking. You can also swap out vegetables for seasonal favorites or what’s in your fridge!”

• Make it vegan: Use a plant-based Parmesan or nutritional yeast instead of cheese.
• Add protein: Stir in cooked lentils, chickpeas, or tofu cubes for extra protein.
• Spice it up: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce for more heat.
• Use fresh tomatoes: If you have fresh ripe tomatoes, dice and cook them down instead of canned.
• Herbs: Try adding rosemary or thyme for a different flavor profile.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegetarian spaghetti pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A glass of light red wine or sparkling water with lemon complements the fresh flavors beautifully.

For a creamier twist, try topping your spaghetti with our Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes.

Looking to explore more vegetable-forward dishes? Check out some of our favorites like Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals or for a sweet treat after dinner, our Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious.

Conclusion

This vegetarian spaghetti pasta recipe is a true testament to how simple ingredients can create a wholesome and flavorful meal. It’s approachable for cooks of all levels and easily adaptable to suit your taste or dietary needs.

The combination of fresh vegetables, herbs, and a vibrant tomato sauce makes this dish a nutritious and satisfying option that everyone will enjoy.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting friends, this recipe offers a comforting and delicious way to enjoy pasta without meat. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different vegetables or spices to make it your own.

For more inspiration on plant-based meals, explore our wide array of vegetarian and vegan recipes to keep your menu exciting and healthy.

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