Creamy Vegetable Pasta Recipe for Easy Weeknight Dinners

Pasta is one of those comforting dishes that never fail to satisfy, especially when paired with a luscious, creamy sauce and a medley of fresh vegetables. This creamy vegetable pasta recipe is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a hearty, wholesome meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Whether you’re a busy professional, a parent looking to please picky eaters, or simply a pasta lover, this recipe combines vibrant veggies with a rich, velvety sauce that’s both indulgent and nourishing.

From the first bite, you’ll experience the delightful contrast of tender pasta enveloped in a smooth, flavorful cream sauce, accented by the natural sweetness and earthiness of mixed vegetables. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile and can be easily adapted to suit your dietary preferences or whatever produce you have on hand.

Dive into this recipe and discover how easy it is to create a restaurant-quality dish right in your own home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy vegetable pasta recipe is a fantastic blend of nutrition and indulgence. It’s packed with colorful vegetables that add vitamins, minerals, and fiber to your meal, making it a healthy choice without sacrificing flavor.

The creamy sauce is made with simple ingredients that come together quickly, ensuring you have dinner on the table in under 30 minutes.

What sets this dish apart is its versatility. You can swap in your favorite seasonal veggies or use what’s in your fridge.

It’s perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or even impressing guests. Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly and can easily be made vegan or gluten-free with minor tweaks.

If you love easy comfort food that’s delicious and wholesome, this recipe will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen.

Ingredients

• 8 oz (225g) pasta (penne, fusilli, or fettuccine work well)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium zucchini, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for vegan option)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for vegan)
• 1/4 cup vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme mix)
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Colander for draining pasta
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Grater for Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the aromatics: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
3. Add garlic and vegetables: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add broccoli, bell pepper, and zucchini. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until vegetables are tender but still crisp.
4. Incorporate tomatoes and broth: Add the cherry tomatoes and vegetable broth to the skillet. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes soften.
5. Make the creamy sauce: Reduce heat to low. Pour in the heavy cream and stir well to combine. Add the dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
6. Add cheese and pasta: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and fully incorporated. Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss everything together. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach desired consistency.
7. Final touches: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Tips & Variations

For the creamiest sauce, use full-fat heavy cream or a rich coconut cream if you prefer dairy-free.

You can customize this recipe based on the vegetables you have on hand. Try adding mushrooms, spinach, peas, or asparagus for different flavors and textures.

If you want to make this recipe vegan, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream, and swap Parmesan for nutritional yeast or vegan cheese alternatives.

For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and check your broth ingredients to ensure they’re gluten-free.

To add protein, consider mixing in cooked chickpeas, tofu cubes, or your favorite plant-based sausage.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This creamy vegetable pasta pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette or a light lemon dressing. For a heartier meal, serve alongside garlic bread or warm focaccia to soak up the delicious sauce.

If you’re hosting a dinner party, consider offering a simple appetizer like bruschetta or roasted red pepper soup to complement the pasta’s flavors.

For a wine pairing, a crisp white like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc works wonderfully to balance the richness of the sauce.

Conclusion

This creamy vegetable pasta recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a comforting, nutritious meal that’s simple to prepare and full of flavor. Its vibrant vegetables combined with a rich, velvety sauce create a perfect balance that appeals to both vegetarians and pasta enthusiasts alike.

The flexibility of the recipe allows you to customize it according to your preferences and pantry staples, making it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Whether you’re new to cooking or an experienced home chef, this recipe offers a straightforward approach to creating a dish that feels indulgent yet wholesome. For more delicious vegetarian ideas, check out A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion or explore unique grains with Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals.

For a flavorful spice addition to your meals, don’t miss the Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend.

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