Chilli Pasta Recipe Vegetarian: Easy and Flavorful Dish

If you’re craving a vibrant, spicy, and utterly satisfying meal that’s also vegetarian-friendly, this chilli pasta recipe is your new go-to dish. Combining the comforting heartiness of pasta with the fiery warmth of chilli, this recipe packs a punch without compromising on flavor or nutrition.

Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or want to impress friends at a casual gathering, this dish comes together quickly with fresh ingredients and simple steps. The best part?

It’s entirely meat-free yet rich in taste, making it perfect for vegetarians and those looking to reduce their meat consumption.

With a bold tomato base, a medley of colorful vegetables, and just the right amount of heat, this chilli pasta is both delicious and nourishing. Serve it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or some grated cheese for an added touch of indulgence.

Dive into this recipe and discover how easy it is to whip up a spicy, wholesome meal that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chilli pasta offers a beautiful harmony of heat, texture, and flavor. The vibrant chili-infused sauce coats every strand of pasta, delivering a satisfying kick with each bite.

It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy schedules or last-minute dinners. Plus, it’s fully vegetarian, relying on fresh vegetables and spices to create depth and excitement on your plate.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just looking to add more plant-based meals to your rotation, this recipe is a fantastic choice. It’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite veggies or spice levels.

And unlike many pasta dishes, it’s packed with fiber and nutrients, so you’ll feel great enjoying it!

Ingredients

• 300g pasta (penne or fusilli work great)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 fresh red chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
• 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh coriander or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan or vegan cheese (optional)

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Colander for draining pasta
• Knife and chopping board
• Measuring spoons
• Can opener

Instructions

1. 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. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
3. Add garlic and chili: Stir in minced garlic and chopped red chilies. Sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
4. Add bell peppers: Toss in the diced red and green bell peppers. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender but still slightly crisp.
5. Create the sauce base: Stir in the tomato paste, smoked paprika, dried oregano, and ground cumin. Cook for 1 minute to release the spices’ aroma.
6. Add crushed tomatoes: Pour in the canned crushed tomatoes. Stir well and simmer for 10-12 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken. Add salt and pepper to taste.
7. Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce seems too thick.
8. Final touches: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh coriander or parsley. Optionally, sprinkle with grated Parmesan or vegan cheese.
9. Serve immediately: Plate up your delicious chilli pasta and enjoy it hot for the best flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations

Want to tweak the heat? Adjust the amount of fresh chili or substitute with chili flakes for a different kind of spice.

You can easily swap the bell peppers for other veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach to add extra nutrition and variety. For a creamier twist, stir in a splash of coconut milk or cream before serving.

If you prefer a smoky flavor, try adding a dash of liquid smoke or smoked chili powder. For protein boost, toss in cooked chickpeas or your favorite vegetarian sausage slices.

To keep things gluten-free, simply replace regular pasta with a gluten-free variety. Also, experiment with different herbs like basil or thyme to find your favorite flavor profile.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This chilli pasta pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a side of garlic bread for a complete meal. You could also serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a cooling cucumber raita to balance the heat.

For a festive touch, add a handful of toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of basil pesto on top. Leftovers make an excellent lunch and reheat well in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Conclusion

This vegetarian chilli pasta recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a spicy, flavorful meal without any meat. Its combination of fresh vegetables, bold spices, and comforting pasta makes it a hit for all kinds of eaters.

Quick to make and easy to customize, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining.

By exploring different variations and pairing it with your favorite sides, you can keep this dish exciting every time you make it. If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out other delicious meals like Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe, Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe, and the hearty Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe for more culinary inspiration!

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