Discovering the perfect vegan veggie pasta recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking to enjoy a wholesome, nutritious, and delicious meal that’s entirely plant-based. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan, vegetarian, or simply trying to add more veggies to your plate, this recipe delivers vibrant flavors, rich textures, and a satisfying comfort-food vibe all in one bowl.
Made with fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and a luscious tomato sauce, this pasta dish is both simple to make and irresistibly tasty. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or impressing guests with a colorful and healthy option.
Plus, it’s entirely cruelty-free and packed with nutrients, making it a favorite for your body and the planet.
Let’s dive into the best vegan veggie pasta recipe that will have you reaching for seconds and feeling great about what you’re eating!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegan veggie pasta is more than just a meal – it’s a celebration of fresh, wholesome ingredients coming together in perfect harmony. Here’s why you’ll adore this recipe:
- Loaded with colorful vegetables: Bell peppers, zucchini, spinach, and cherry tomatoes add vibrant color and a variety of textures.
- Rich and flavorful sauce: Made from ripe tomatoes, garlic, and a hint of Italian herbs, it’s bursting with taste.
- Easy and quick to prepare: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy days.
- Completely plant-based: No dairy, eggs, or animal products – just pure, healthy ingredients.
- Customizable: Swap veggies or add your favorite vegan protein for variety.
Ingredients
- 12 oz whole wheat or gluten-free pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- 2 tbsp nutritional yeast (optional, for a cheesy flavor)
Equipment
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Colander for draining pasta
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons and cups
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Sauté the aromatics: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Add garlic and bell pepper: Stir in the minced garlic and sliced red bell pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened.
- Cook the zucchini and tomatoes: Add the diced zucchini and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender.
- Season and add crushed tomatoes: Sprinkle in the dried oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir to combine. Let the sauce simmer gently for 8-10 minutes to thicken.
- Incorporate spinach: Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss well to combine, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce is too thick.
- Add nutritional yeast: If using, sprinkle the nutritional yeast over the pasta and stir to add a subtle cheesy flavor.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.
- Serve and garnish: Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Enjoy immediately!
Tips & Variations
“Feel free to swap out any veggies based on seasonality or preference—mushrooms, eggplant, or broccoli work wonderfully too!”
- Protein boost: Add cooked chickpeas, tofu cubes, or your favorite vegan sausage for extra protein.
- Use fresh herbs: If you have fresh basil or oregano, use those instead of dried for a brighter flavor.
- Spicy kick: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to spice things up.
- Creamy twist: Stir in a splash of coconut milk or cashew cream for a creamy sauce variation.
- Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and double-check your nutritional yeast is gluten-free.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per serving |
---|---|
Calories | 350 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 60 g |
Protein | 12 g |
Fat | 6 g |
Fiber | 8 g |
Sugar | 8 g |
Sodium | 450 mg |
Serving Suggestions
This vegan veggie pasta pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad, such as a simple arugula and lemon vinaigrette salad. For a heartier meal, serve with garlic bread or toasted baguette slices.
If you want to keep things light, a chilled cucumber and tomato salad with a splash of balsamic vinegar makes a refreshing side.
For dessert, why not treat yourself to a sweet finish with the Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream Recipe or indulge in the rich and decadent Chocolate Heaven Cake Recipe. For additional sauce ideas, try enhancing your pasta with the Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce Recipe.
Conclusion
This best vegan veggie pasta recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that combines wholesome ingredients with simple preparation for an unforgettable meal. Every bite is a celebration of fresh vegetables, vibrant herbs, and heartwarming flavors that nourish your body and soul.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or friends, this dish is sure to satisfy cravings and inspire healthy eating habits.
Its versatility and ease make it a staple in any kitchen, and with endless options for customization, you can enjoy it over and over without ever getting bored. So next time you’re craving comfort food with a plant-based twist, give this recipe a try and savor every delicious forkful!
📖 Recipe Card: Best Vegan Veggie Pasta Recipe
Description: A flavorful and colorful vegan pasta packed with fresh vegetables and herbs. Perfect for a quick, healthy, and satisfying meal.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT35M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz whole wheat pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic; sauté until fragrant and translucent.
- Add bell pepper and zucchini; cook for 5-7 minutes until tender.
- Stir in cherry tomatoes, spinach, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Cook until spinach wilts and tomatoes soften, about 3 minutes.
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve warm.
Nutrition: Calories: 380 kcal | Protein: 12 g | Fat: 7 g | Carbs: 68 g
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