Arrabiata pasta is a classic Italian dish known for its bold, fiery flavors and simplicity. This recipe takes the traditional spicy tomato sauce and elevates it by incorporating a vibrant medley of fresh vegetables, making it not only delicious but also nutritious.
Whether you’re a vegetarian or simply looking to add more veggies to your meal, this arrabiata pasta with vegetables is a perfect choice. The combination of garlic, chili, and ripe tomatoes creates a sauce that’s both comforting and full of zest.
Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
In this blog post, you’ll find everything you need to make this delightful dish from scratch, including ingredient lists, step-by-step instructions, tips for customization, and nutrition facts. So put on your apron, grab your favorite pasta, and get ready to enjoy a spicy, hearty meal that everyone will love!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This arrabiata pasta recipe with vegetables is a fantastic way to enjoy a traditional Italian favorite while packing in a variety of healthy, colorful vegetables. The sauce strikes the perfect balance between spicy and savory, enhanced by the natural sweetness of fresh tomatoes and the aromatic punch of garlic and chili flakes.
It’s vegan-friendly, easy to make, and perfect for meal prepping since the flavors only deepen after a day. Plus, it’s versatile—you can swap in whatever vegetables you have on hand or prefer.
This dish is a nutrient-dense, satisfying option that will keep you energized and happy after every bite.
Looking to explore more vegetarian pasta ideas? Check out our Amazing Vegan Pasta Recipes for Easy Delicious Meals.
Ingredients
- 300g penne pasta (or your favorite pasta shape)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 red chili, sliced thinly (adjust to taste)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 400g canned crushed tomatoes (preferably San Marzano)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Red chili flakes, extra for serving (optional)
Equipment
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large non-stick skillet or saucepan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Colander for draining pasta
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons and cups
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water.
- Prepare the vegetables: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Add garlic and chili: Stir in the chopped garlic and sliced red chili. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Cook the vegetables: Add the diced red bell pepper, zucchini, and mushrooms. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables have softened but still retain some bite.
- Add tomatoes and seasoning: Stir in the canned crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, and dried basil. Mix well and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer the sauce: Let the sauce simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the sauce becomes too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss well to coat all the pasta with the spicy vegetable sauce. Warm through for 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of red chili flakes if you like extra heat. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips & Variations
For a milder sauce, reduce the amount of chili or remove the seeds before slicing.
You can easily customize this recipe based on what you have in your fridge. Try adding spinach or kale for extra greens, or toss in some olives for a briny twist.
If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a splash of coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative just before serving.
For a protein boost, consider adding some cooked chickpeas or vegan sausage slices. Want to experiment with grains?
Use Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals as inspiration.
If you love spice blends, check out our Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend to make your own chili mix to enhance this dish even further.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 380 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 65g |
| Protein | 10g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Fiber | 8g |
| Sugar | 9g |
| Sodium | 420mg |
Note: Nutrition facts are approximate and will vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
Serving Suggestions
This spicy arrabiata pasta with vegetables pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad topped with lemon vinaigrette to balance the heat. You can also serve it alongside some warm garlic bread or focaccia to soak up the delicious sauce.
For a more substantial meal, consider adding a side of roasted vegetables or a simple soup like minestrone. If you’re looking for more vegetarian dinner ideas, visit our A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion for inspiration.
Conclusion
This arrabiata pasta recipe with vegetables is a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. It’s wonderfully simple to prepare yet packed with bold, fresh flavors and nutritious ingredients.
The combination of spicy tomato sauce and tender veggies makes for a comforting meal that’s both satisfying and wholesome.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this recipe offers versatility and ease without compromising on taste. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different veggies or spice levels to make it your own.
Enjoy this fiery pasta dish any night of the week and savor all the delicious goodness it brings to your table!
📖 Recipe Card: Arrabiata Pasta with Vegetables
Description: A spicy and flavorful arrabiata pasta loaded with fresh vegetables. Perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight meal.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT35M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 300g penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red chili, finely chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 400g canned crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat and sauté garlic and chili until fragrant.
- Add onion, bell pepper, and zucchini; cook until vegetables are tender.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper; simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to combine evenly.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot.
Nutrition: Calories: 380 kcal | Protein: 12 g | Fat: 10 g | Carbs: 58 g
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