Cheap Pasta Recipes Vegetarian: Easy, Tasty Meals to Try

Pasta is a staple in so many kitchens, and for good reason: it’s affordable, endlessly versatile, and always comforting. If you’re looking for ways to stretch your grocery budget without sacrificing flavor or nutrition, vegetarian pasta dishes are a true lifesaver.

With a handful of pantry staples and a few fresh vegetables, you can whip up hearty, satisfying meals that please everyone at the table. Whether you’re a college student, a busy parent, or just someone who loves a cozy bowl of noodles, these cheap vegetarian pasta recipes will become your go-to weeknight favorites.

In this post, I’ll share three tried-and-true recipes that showcase the magic of simple ingredients: Classic Tomato Garlic Spaghetti, Creamy One-Pot Spinach Pasta, and Peanut Butter Soy Sauce Noodles. Each recipe is budget-friendly, packed with flavor, and can be customized to use whatever veggies you have on hand.

So, grab your favorite pasta and let’s dive into some easy, affordable, and delicious vegetarian meals!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Budget-Friendly: These recipes use inexpensive pantry staples and common vegetables, making them perfect for anyone looking to save money.
• Quick & Easy: Each dish is ready in 30 minutes or less, ideal for busy weeknights.
• Nutritious: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and plant-based protein for a balanced meal.
• Customizable: Swap in your favorite pasta shapes or use up whatever veggies are in your fridge.
• Crowd-Pleasers: Even meat-lovers will ask for seconds!

Ingredients

Classic Tomato Garlic Spaghetti

Creamy One-Pot Spinach Pasta

Peanut Butter Soy Sauce Noodles

Equipment

• Large pot (for boiling pasta)
• Colander
• Large skillet or saucepan
• Cutting board and knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Mixing bowl (for sauce in peanut noodles)
• Grater (for cheese or veggies, optional)

Instructions

Classic Tomato Garlic Spaghetti

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. Drain, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
2. Sauté the garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced garlic and cook until fragrant and golden, about 1-2 minutes.
3. Add tomatoes: Pour in the canned tomatoes (with juices), salt, pepper, and dried herbs if using. Simmer for 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Toss pasta and sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water. Toss until noodles are evenly coated.
5. Garnish and serve: Top with fresh parsley or basil, and a sprinkle of grated cheese if desired. Enjoy hot!

Creamy One-Pot Spinach Pasta

1. Sauté aromatics: In a large pot, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
2. Add liquids and pasta: Pour in the vegetable broth and milk. Stir in the short pasta and bring to a boil.
3. Simmer: Reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 10 minutes.
4. Add spinach and cheese: Stir in frozen spinach and grated cheese. Cook uncovered, stirring, until pasta is tender and sauce is creamy, about 3-5 more minutes.
5. Season and serve: Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm, with extra cheese if you like.

Peanut Butter Soy Sauce Noodles

1. Cook the noodles: Boil noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, sesame oil, vinegar, and honey or maple syrup until smooth.
3. Combine and toss: Add cooked noodles to the bowl. Toss to coat evenly in the sauce.
4. Add veggies: Mix in julienned carrot, cucumber, and sliced green onions.
5. Serve: Divide among bowls and top with crushed peanuts for crunch.

Tips & Variations

• Mix up the veggies: Use whatever you have—bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, or kale all work beautifully.
• Add protein: Toss in a can of chickpeas or white beans for extra plant-based protein and fiber.
• Make it vegan: Use plant-based milk and cheese, and swap honey for maple syrup in the peanut noodle recipe.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or a dash of chili oil for heat.
• Go gluten-free: Substitute your favorite gluten-free pasta or noodles.
• “Leftover cooked veggies or greens can always be stirred in to boost nutrition and prevent food waste!”

For even more comfort food inspiration, check out our Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe or explore creative starters with these Low Fodmap Appetizer Recipes!

Nutrition Facts

Nutrition facts are estimates based on standard ingredients and may vary depending on exact products used.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a fresh salad: Try tossing together greens, tomatoes, and cucumber with a simple vinaigrette.
• Add a slice of homemade bread: Such as our High Altitude Wheat Bread Recipe for a hearty touch.
• Make it a meal: Serve alongside roasted vegetables or a cup of soup for added comfort.
• Garnish generously: Fresh herbs, extra cheese, or chopped nuts add flavor and texture.
• Enjoy cold or hot: Especially the peanut noodles, which are delicious straight from the fridge!

Conclusion

Eating well on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or variety. These cheap vegetarian pasta recipes prove that you can create satisfying, wholesome meals with just a few simple ingredients.

Not only are they easy to prepare, but they’re also endlessly adaptable to your taste and whatever you have on hand. Whether you’re craving something classic and comforting or a bold, nutty twist, these dishes are sure to become staples in your kitchen.

Don’t be afraid to get creative—pasta is a blank canvas, ready for your favorite vegetables, herbs, and spices. The best meals are the ones that nourish both your body and your wallet.

If you’re hungry for more, take a look at our Lion’S Mane Mushroom Crumble Recipes or treat yourself to a sweet finish with this Kolasnittar Recipe. Happy cooking and buon appetito!

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