Chipotle Pasta Recipe Vegetarian: Easy and Flavorful Meal

If you’re craving a dish that perfectly balances smoky heat with creamy comfort, look no further than this Chipotle Pasta Recipe Vegetarian. It’s a delightful twist on traditional pasta, infused with the rich, smoky flavor of chipotle peppers that bring a subtle kick without overwhelming the palate.

Whether you’re a vegetarian or simply looking to add more plant-based meals to your rotation, this recipe is a winner. The sauce is smooth and luscious, made from simple pantry staples combined with a touch of smoky chipotle, fresh veggies, and al dente pasta.

It’s a quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual weekend dinners.

Not only is this dish packed with flavor, but it’s also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or add a sprinkle of cheese or fresh herbs for an extra burst of taste.

Plus, it’s naturally vegetarian and can easily be made vegan with a few simple swaps. Let’s dive into why this chipotle pasta deserves a spot in your recipe collection!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chipotle pasta recipe is a culinary game-changer for several reasons. First, it combines the smoky depth of chipotle peppers with the creaminess of a tomato-based sauce, creating a unique flavor profile that’s both comforting and exciting.

It’s perfect for those who love a bit of spice but want to keep their meals wholesome and meat-free.

Secondly, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. From start to finish, it takes less than 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.

The ingredients are simple and easily accessible, so you probably have most of them in your kitchen already.

Finally, this dish is very adaptable. You can add in roasted vegetables, swap the pasta type, or adjust the heat level to suit your taste.

It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a hearty meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 8 oz penne or fusilli pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped (adjust for spice preference)
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream (for vegan option)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup baby spinach
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional, use vegan cheese for vegan)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Red pepper flakes for extra heat (optional)

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Colander for draining pasta
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Blender or immersion blender (optional for smoother sauce)

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 1/2 cup of pasta water.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add chipotle and spices: Stir in the finely chopped chipotle peppers and smoked paprika. Cook for 1 minute to release their smokiness.
4. Make the sauce: Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 8-10 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
5. Blend the sauce (optional): For a smoother texture, carefully transfer the sauce to a blender or use an immersion blender to puree until smooth. Return to the skillet.
6. Add cream and season: Stir in the heavy cream or coconut cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
7. Combine pasta and greens: Add the cooked pasta and baby spinach to the sauce. Toss well until the spinach wilts and the pasta is evenly coated.
8. Finish with cheese: If using, sprinkle shredded cheese over the pasta and gently stir until melted.
9. Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

Tip: Adjust the number of chipotle peppers to your heat preference. Start with one and add more if you like it spicier!

Variation: Swap out baby spinach for kale, arugula, or roasted bell peppers to add different textures and flavors.

Vegan option: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

Make it heartier: Add black beans or sautéed mushrooms for extra protein and texture.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This chipotle pasta pairs beautifully with a light, crisp salad to balance the smoky richness of the sauce. Try a simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette or a crunchy slaw for contrast.

For bread lovers, warm some garlic bread or a crusty baguette alongside to soak up every last bit of the flavorful sauce. If you want to add more protein, a side of grilled tofu or a fresh bean salad complements the dish perfectly.

Looking for more inspiration? Check out the Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe for a delicious vegetable side or the Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe to add a spicy tang to your meal.

Conclusion

This Chipotle Pasta Recipe Vegetarian is a flavorful, satisfying dish that brings a wonderful smoky heat to your dinner table without relying on meat. Its creamy, spicy sauce combined with tender pasta and fresh greens makes it a perfect comfort meal for any day of the week.

The recipe is quick, easy to customize, and appeals to all skill levels in the kitchen.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this dish offers a delicious balance of spice, creaminess, and freshness that everyone can enjoy. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to introduce chipotle peppers to your cooking repertoire.

Don’t forget to explore some other tasty recipes like the Pesto Recipe Marcella Hazan or the Pecan Crackers Recipe for more culinary inspiration. Happy cooking!

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