Conchiglie Pasta Vegetarian Recipe for Easy Healthy Meals

If you’re searching for a pasta dish that is both comforting and packed with vibrant flavors, this conchiglie pasta vegetarian recipe is an absolute delight. Conchiglie, known for its shell shape, perfectly holds sauces and ingredients, making every bite a burst of taste and texture.

This recipe combines fresh vegetables, creamy sauce, and aromatic herbs to create a fulfilling meal that satisfies vegetarians and pasta lovers alike.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this dish offers a wonderful balance of nutrition and indulgence. It’s easy enough for weeknight dinners yet elegant enough to impress guests.

Plus, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet in a delicious way. Keep reading to discover how to prepare this colorful, wholesome, and absolutely scrumptious pasta recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian conchiglie pasta recipe is a crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First, the conchiglie pasta shape is ideal for capturing the sauce and vegetables, ensuring every bite is flavorful.

The dish is loaded with fresh, nutrient-rich vegetables like cherry tomatoes, spinach, and bell peppers that add color and texture.

The sauce is a luscious blend of garlic, olive oil, and a hint of creaminess without overwhelming the freshness of the vegetables. It’s also incredibly versatile — you can easily swap in your favorite seasonal veggies or add a sprinkle of your preferred cheese or vegan alternative.

Best of all, this recipe is straightforward and uses simple pantry staples, so it’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. For more ideas on vegetarian meals, check out our A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion.

Ingredients

• 300g conchiglie pasta (shell-shaped pasta)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, roughly chopped
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for mild heat)
• 1/4 cup vegetable broth or pasta cooking water
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese or vegan cheese alternative
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish
• Juice of half a lemon

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Colander or strainer
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the conchiglie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 9-11 minutes. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
2. Sauté the aromatics: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add vegetables: Toss in the diced red bell pepper and cook for 3 minutes until slightly softened. Then add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they start to break down.
4. Season and add heat: Stir in the chili flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Pour in the vegetable broth or reserved pasta water to create a light sauce. Let it simmer gently for 2 minutes.
5. Combine pasta and greens: Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing well to coat in the sauce. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted.
6. Finish with cheese and lemon: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan or vegan cheese alternative. Squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the pasta, mixing to brighten the flavors.
7. Serve and garnish: Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations

For a creamier sauce, try adding a splash of coconut milk or a tablespoon of cashew cream when adding the vegetable broth.

You can customize this recipe depending on your preferences or what you have on hand. Swap out bell peppers for zucchini or mushrooms, or add olives for a Mediterranean twist.

For a protein boost, toss in cooked chickpeas or your favorite plant-based sausage.

If you want to make it vegan, simply use a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. For a spicier kick, increase the chili flakes or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce.

Interested in more vegetarian pasta dishes? Check out our Amazing Vegan Pasta Recipes for Easy Delicious Meals and explore a variety of flavors and ingredients.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrition values are approximate and can vary based on ingredient brands and portions.

Serving Suggestions

This conchiglie pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or a simple garlic bread to soak up any remaining sauce. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a warm soup like our Vegan Fall Soup Recipes To Warm Your Cozy Evenings.

For a complete Mediterranean-inspired dinner, add a side of marinated olives or a fresh cucumber and tomato salad. This pasta also works wonderfully as a lunch box meal, as it can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

Conclusion

This conchiglie pasta vegetarian recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful, nutritious, and satisfying meal with minimal fuss. The combination of fresh vegetables, perfectly cooked pasta, and a light but tasty sauce makes it a versatile dish that appeals to all ages and dietary preferences.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or simply looking to add more plant-based meals to your rotation, this recipe is a winner. Plus, it’s highly adaptable to whatever ingredients you have on hand, making it a practical choice for busy home cooks.

Don’t forget to explore more delicious vegetarian recipes like our Cheap Vegetarian Recipes For Families Everyone Will Love for inspiration.

Enjoy this vibrant and wholesome pasta dish as part of your weekly meal plan and savor the flavors of fresh, wholesome ingredients in every bite!

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