If you’re looking to elevate your weeknight dinners with a wholesome, flavorful, and colorful dish, this brown rice fettuccine with vegetable recipe is just what you need. Brown rice pasta offers a delightful nutty flavor and chewy texture, making it a great gluten-free alternative to traditional wheat pasta.
Paired with a medley of vibrant vegetables, this meal is packed with nutrients and bursting with freshness. The combination of sautéed veggies and perfectly cooked fettuccine creates a satisfying harmony of taste and texture that will please both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.
Whether you’re a busy professional, a health-conscious foodie, or simply someone who enjoys easy, delicious meals, this recipe is quick to prepare and adaptable to whatever veggies you have on hand. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner at home or impressing guests with a colorful, nutritious plate.
Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate more whole grains and vegetables into your diet without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This brown rice fettuccine with vegetable recipe stands out for several reasons. First, the brown rice pasta is gluten-free and high in fiber, helping you stay full longer and aiding digestion.
The dish is naturally vegan, making it suitable for a variety of dietary preferences. The fresh vegetables add a vibrant crunch and a rainbow of nutrients including vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants.
Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. You can easily swap in your favorite seasonal vegetables or whatever you have in your fridge, making it budget-friendly and reducing food waste.
The sauce is light yet flavorful, letting the natural sweetness of the vegetables shine through without being heavy or greasy.
Finally, it’s a quick recipe that comes together in under 30 minutes. The ease of preparation combined with the wholesome ingredients makes it a go-to meal for busy weeknights or casual weekend lunches.
Ingredients
- 8 oz brown rice fettuccine
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium carrot, julienned or thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Juice of half a lemon
- Grated vegan parmesan cheese (optional)
Equipment
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Colander or strainer
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Citrus juicer (optional)
- Measuring spoons
Instructions
- Cook the brown rice fettuccine: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the brown rice fettuccine and cook according to package instructions, usually about 7-9 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Drain the pasta: Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and then drain the pasta in a colander. Set aside.
- Prepare the vegetables: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Add garlic and carrot: Stir in the minced garlic and julienned carrot. Cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened.
- Add bell pepper and zucchini: Toss in the sliced red bell pepper and zucchini. Sauté for 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
- Add cherry tomatoes and spinach: Add the halved cherry tomatoes and fresh spinach leaves. Cook until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes soften, about 2-3 minutes.
- Season the vegetables: Stir in the soy sauce, dried oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
- Combine pasta and veggies: Add the cooked brown rice fettuccine to the skillet with the vegetables. Toss gently to combine, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if needed to loosen the sauce and help everything coat evenly.
- Finish with lemon juice: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the pasta and toss once more to brighten the flavors.
- Serve and garnish: Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of vegan parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately while warm.
Tips & Variations
“For extra protein, try adding some cooked chickpeas or white beans to the vegetable mixture.”
- Vegetable swaps: Use seasonal veggies like asparagus, broccoli, or mushrooms depending on availability.
- Add nuts or seeds: Toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds add a lovely crunch and extra nutrition.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a few tablespoons of cashew cream or vegan pesto for a luscious sauce variation.
- Spice it up: Increase crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of your favorite chili powder. For a great chili powder blend, check out our Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend.
- Meal prep friendly: This recipe keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheats nicely for quick lunches.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350-400 kcal |
| Protein | 9-11 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 65 grams |
| Dietary Fiber | 8 grams |
| Fat | 7-9 grams (mostly from olive oil) |
| Vitamin A | 120% DV |
| Vitamin C | 90% DV |
| Iron | 15% DV |
Serving Suggestions
This brown rice fettuccine dish pairs beautifully with a light side salad, such as a simple arugula and lemon vinaigrette salad or a crunchy cucumber and tomato salad. For added protein, you can serve it alongside grilled tofu or tempeh.
A chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with fresh lemon complements the fresh, vibrant flavors perfectly. For a heartier meal, add some artisan bread or garlic bread on the side to soak up any leftover sauce.
If you love pasta dishes, be sure to explore more options like our Amazing Vegan Pasta Recipes for Easy Delicious Meals or discover wholesome alternatives with Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals.
Conclusion
Brown rice fettuccine with vegetables is a fantastic recipe that brings together wholesome ingredients and vibrant flavors for a nourishing and satisfying meal. Its ease of preparation, versatility, and health benefits make it a perfect addition to any home cook’s repertoire.
Whether you’re seeking gluten-free alternatives or just want a colorful plant-based dinner, this recipe delivers on taste and nutrition.
By using fresh vegetables and simple seasonings, this dish is a celebration of natural flavors, proving that healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated or boring. Plus, it’s quick enough to prepare on busy days yet elegant enough to impress your family or guests.
Give this recipe a try and enjoy a wholesome, delicious, and colorful plate of brown rice fettuccine with vegetables. For more inspiring vegetarian and vegan recipes, visit our A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion to continue your culinary adventure.
📖 Recipe Card: Brown Rice Fettuccine with Vegetables
Description: A healthy and flavorful brown rice fettuccine dish loaded with fresh vegetables. Perfect for a quick and nutritious weeknight meal.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT35M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz brown rice fettuccine
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth
Instructions
- Cook brown rice fettuccine according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add bell pepper, zucchini, and broccoli; cook for 5-7 minutes until tender.
- Stir in cherry tomatoes and cook for 2 minutes.
- Pour in vegetable broth and simmer for 3 minutes.
- Add cooked fettuccine to the skillet and toss to combine.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 350 kcal | Protein: 10 g | Fat: 8 g | Carbs: 60 g
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