Veg Penne Pasta Recipes That Are Easy and Delicious

Penne pasta is a beloved staple in kitchens around the world, cherished for its versatility and ability to soak up delicious sauces. When paired with fresh, vibrant vegetables, it transforms into a wholesome, colorful dish that’s perfect for any meal.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or simply looking to add more plant-based meals to your diet, veg penne pasta recipes are a fantastic option that combines nutrition, flavor, and ease of preparation.

This blog post will guide you through some delightful veg penne pasta recipes that are easy to prepare and bursting with fresh ingredients. From creamy sauces to zesty tomato bases, these recipes bring out the best in seasonal vegetables and pasta alike.

Plus, they’re perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or impressing guests with minimal fuss.

Get ready to dive into the world of veg penne pasta with recipes that are not only delicious but also healthy and customizable to your taste!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a bowl of penne pasta tossed with colorful vegetables and flavorful herbs. These veg penne pasta recipes offer:

• Nutritious ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables, these recipes provide fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants that support a balanced diet.
• Easy preparation: Most recipes can be made in under 30 minutes, ideal for busy cooks.
• Customizable flavors: You can swap veggies and sauces to suit seasonal availability and personal preferences.
• Family-friendly: These recipes appeal to both kids and adults, making mealtime simple and enjoyable.
• Vegetarian and vegan options: Easily adaptable to fit plant-based lifestyles.

Ingredients

• 400g penne pasta (whole wheat or gluten-free if preferred)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 zucchini, sliced into half-moons
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 carrot, julienned or thinly sliced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
• Grated Parmesan cheese or vegan alternative (optional)
• 1/2 cup vegetable broth or pasta water reserved

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Colander for draining pasta
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and chopping board
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Serving bowls and plates

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually 10-12 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta in a colander.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the vegetables: Toss in the diced red bell pepper, zucchini, broccoli florets, and carrot. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
4. Incorporate tomatoes and seasonings: Add the cherry tomatoes, dried oregano, basil, chili flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well and let the tomatoes soften for 3-4 minutes.
5. Create the sauce: Pour in the vegetable broth or reserved pasta water to deglaze the pan, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
6. Combine pasta and veggies: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss everything together to coat the pasta evenly in the vegetable sauce.
7. Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste and adjust salt or pepper if needed. Remove from heat, garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and sprinkle with grated Parmesan or vegan cheese if desired.

Tips & Variations

“Feel free to swap out vegetables based on what’s in season or in your fridge. Mushrooms, spinach, peas, or asparagus all make wonderful additions!”

• For a creamy twist, add 1/4 cup of vegan bechamel sauce. Try our Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes.
• Make it spicy by adding more chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• For extra protein, toss in cooked chickpeas, tofu cubes, or your favorite plant-based meat substitute.
• Use whole wheat or gluten-free penne to suit dietary needs.
• Roast your vegetables beforehand for a deeper, caramelized flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This veg penne pasta is excellent served hot as a main dish. Pair it with a fresh green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette or garlic bread for a complete meal.

For a light lunch, serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a bowl of Low Calorie Vegetable Soup Recipe for Healthy Eating.

For a more indulgent dinner, add a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or vegan cheese for extra texture and flavor.

More Veg Penne Pasta Recipes to Try

1. Roasted Veggie Penne with Garlic and Basil: Roast eggplant, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes, then toss with penne and a garlic-basil olive oil dressing for a smoky, fresh flavor.
2. Spinach and Mushroom Penne in Creamy Cashew Sauce: Blend soaked cashews into a creamy sauce, sauté mushrooms and spinach, and combine with penne for a rich vegan delight. Check out our Recipes with Spinach Vegetarian: Easy & Delicious Ideas for inspiration.
3. Spicy Arrabbiata Penne with Broccoli and Peppers: A fiery tomato sauce with chili and garlic, loaded with broccoli and bell peppers, for a zesty kick.

Conclusion

Veg penne pasta recipes offer a fantastic way to enjoy a nutritious, flavorful meal that can be tailored to any taste or dietary preference. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a delicious dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or relaxing weekends.

The combination of tender pasta and fresh vegetables creates a satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Whether you prefer a tomato-based sauce, a creamy vegan alternative, or a spicy arrabbiata, there’s a veg penne pasta recipe for you. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different veggies and seasonings to make it your own.

For more delicious plant-based recipes, explore other favorites like our Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners or try a sweet treat like the Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious.

Happy cooking and enjoy every bite of your vibrant veg penne pasta!

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