Aglio Olio Pasta With Vegetables Recipe Made Easy

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a simple pasta dish that packs a punch of flavor without requiring hours in the kitchen. Aglio olio pasta, a classic Italian favorite, is just that: a quick, easy-to-make recipe that combines the aromatic allure of garlic and olive oil with the hearty texture of pasta.

But why stop at the basics? Adding fresh, vibrant vegetables transforms this humble dish into a colorful, nutritious meal perfect for any day of the week.

Whether you’re a busy professional, a cooking novice, or simply looking for a delicious way to enjoy your veggies, this aglio olio pasta with vegetables recipe is sure to delight your taste buds and nourish your body.

In this post, we’ll walk you through why this recipe deserves a spot on your regular rotation, the best ingredients to use, the equipment you’ll need, and detailed step-by-step instructions. Plus, we’ll share some handy tips on how to customize it to your liking, nutrition facts, and serving suggestions to make your dinner truly memorable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This aglio olio pasta with vegetables recipe is a perfect blend of simplicity and healthfulness. It comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners when time is tight but quality counts.

The garlic-infused olive oil creates a fragrant base, while the mix of sautéed vegetables adds texture, color, and essential nutrients.

It’s incredibly adaptable—whether you want to add mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach, you can tailor it to your preferences or what you have on hand. Plus, it’s naturally vegan and can easily be made gluten-free by swapping the pasta.

This recipe also pairs beautifully with other vegetarian meals, making it a versatile star in your culinary lineup.

If you enjoy this easy yet flavorful pasta, be sure to explore more Amazing Vegan Pasta Recipes for Easy Delicious Meals to expand your plant-based repertoire.

Ingredients

• 12 oz spaghetti (or your favorite pasta)
• 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 medium zucchini, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup baby spinach
• 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1/2 cup diced bell pepper (any color)
• Salt to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
• Optional: Vegan parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast for topping

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Colander or strainer
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Sauté the garlic: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook gently until garlic turns golden and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to burn it.
3. Add vegetables: Toss in the diced zucchini, bell pepper, and mushrooms. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until they start to soften. Then add cherry tomatoes and spinach, cooking just until the spinach wilts and tomatoes release their juices.
4. Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the vegetables. Toss to combine all ingredients evenly.
5. Adjust consistency: Add reserved pasta water a little at a time, stirring until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. This starchy water helps the sauce cling perfectly to the pasta.
6. Season: Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Give everything a final toss to blend flavors.
7. Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Sprinkle vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast on top if desired.

Tip: Using fresh garlic is key to that authentic aglio olio flavor, so avoid pre-minced garlic if possible.

Tips & Variations

Customize your veggies: Feel free to swap or add your favorite seasonal vegetables. Asparagus, broccoli florets, or even thinly sliced carrots work wonderfully.

Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta to suit dietary needs without compromising on taste.

Add protein: For a more filling meal, toss in cooked chickpeas or white beans. This adds protein and texture, making it perfect for a balanced dinner.

Spice it up: If you like heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of your favorite chili powder. For an easy homemade spice blend, check out our Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend.

Herb variations: Swap parsley for fresh basil or oregano to give the dish a different aromatic profile.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This aglio olio pasta with vegetables shines as a stand-alone meal thanks to its satisfying flavors and textures. However, it also pairs beautifully with a crisp side salad or warm garlic bread for a comforting Italian-inspired feast.

For a light appetizer, try serving with marinated olives or a bowl of roasted chickpeas. If you want to keep things fresh and seasonal, a simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the olive oil perfectly.

Looking for more vegetarian dishes to accompany your pasta? Explore our collection of A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion or try some Cheap Vegetarian Recipes For Families Everyone Will Love for budget-friendly ideas.

Conclusion

Aglio olio pasta with vegetables is a timeless recipe that proves you don’t need complicated ingredients or fancy techniques to create something delicious and wholesome. Its simplicity allows the fresh ingredients to shine, making it both a comforting and nourishing meal.

This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, casual dinners, or even as a quick lunch option, offering flexibility and flavor in every bite.

By incorporating a variety of vegetables, you not only boost the nutritional value but also add interesting textures and colors to your plate, making mealtime more enjoyable. With just a handful of pantry staples and fresh produce, this recipe is an accessible way to enjoy a taste of Italy with a healthy twist.

Give it a try today and don’t forget to explore our other vegetarian recipes for more inspiring meal ideas!

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