If you’re craving a creamy, comforting pasta dish that’s also packed with vibrant vegetables, you’re in the right place. This Alfredo pasta with veggies recipe brings together the luscious richness of a traditional Alfredo sauce with fresh, colorful vegetables for a meal that’s both indulgent and nutritious.
Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests, this recipe is easy to make and customizable to your favorite seasonal veggies. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, you’ll appreciate how simple it is to whip up this satisfying dish that doesn’t skimp on flavor or health benefits.
With every forkful, you’ll enjoy the velvety sauce coating perfectly cooked pasta, complemented by tender-crisp vegetables that add texture and freshness. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak more veggies into your diet without sacrificing the creamy, cheesy goodness you love.
Ready to elevate your pasta nights? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First, it combines the classic comfort of Alfredo sauce with the wholesome goodness of fresh vegetables, creating a balanced and flavorful meal.
The sauce is rich and creamy without being overly heavy, making it approachable for all palates.
Additionally, the dish is incredibly versatile. You can swap in your favorite vegetables or use whatever is fresh and in season.
It’s also perfect for vegetarians and can be adapted to vegan or gluten-free diets with simple ingredient swaps.
Lastly, it’s a one-pot wonder that’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights when time is short but you still want something delicious and nourishing on the table.
Ingredients
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta (or any pasta of your choice)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup broccoli florets, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a little heat
Equipment
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Colander or strainer
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Grater for Parmesan cheese
- Knife and cutting board
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the broccoli florets, sliced bell pepper, mushrooms, and zucchini. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Alfredo sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
- Add cream and cheese: Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then add the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
- Combine pasta and veggies: Return the sautéed vegetables to the skillet, then add the cooked pasta. Toss everything gently to coat the pasta and vegetables evenly with the Alfredo sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat everything through.
- Season and serve: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving hot.
Tips & Variations
“For an even lighter version, substitute half of the heavy cream with whole milk or a plant-based milk alternative.”
- Make it vegan: Use vegan butter and substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream. Replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast or a vegan Parmesan alternative.
- Gluten-free option: Swap regular pasta for gluten-free pasta varieties to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
- Add protein: Consider adding cooked tofu cubes, chickpeas, or sautéed tempeh for extra protein.
- More veggies: Feel free to add spinach, peas, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus depending on what’s in season.
- Garlic lovers: Increase the garlic to 4-5 cloves for a bolder flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 520 kcal |
Protein | 18 g |
Carbohydrates | 55 g |
Fat | 22 g |
Saturated Fat | 13 g |
Fiber | 5 g |
Sodium | 390 mg |
Serving Suggestions
This creamy Alfredo pasta with veggies pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the sauce. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread are also fantastic accompaniments to mop up any extra sauce.
For a heartier meal, serve alongside roasted or grilled vegetables, or add a side of steamed green beans or asparagus. A glass of chilled white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements this dish perfectly.
If you want to explore more healthy and delicious meal ideas, be sure to check out these recipes:
- Amazing Vegan Pasta Recipes for Easy Delicious Meals
- Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals
- Best Vegetarian Recipes No Dairy for Delicious Meals
Conclusion
This Alfredo pasta with veggies recipe is a perfect blend of indulgence and nutrition, making it a wonderful addition to your recipe repertoire. It’s easy to prepare, adaptable to different dietary preferences, and loaded with fresh vegetables that bring color, flavor, and texture to every bite.
Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish is sure to become a favorite go-to meal.
Making Alfredo pasta doesn’t have to be complicated or heavy – with the right balance of creamy sauce and crisp vegetables, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality dish right at home. Plus, the recipe invites creativity, allowing you to personalize it with your favorite veggies, proteins, or dairy alternatives.
So grab your skillet, get cooking, and enjoy the comforting taste of this delightful pasta dish any night of the week!
📖 Recipe Card: Alfredo Pasta with Veggies
Description: A creamy Alfredo pasta dish loaded with fresh vegetables for a healthy twist. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT35M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup sliced bell peppers
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add broccoli, bell peppers, and mushrooms; cook for 5-7 minutes until tender.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until sauce is smooth.
- Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 480 kcal | Protein: 18 g | Fat: 30 g | Carbs: 40 g
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