Pasta Recipe With Vegetables: Easy & Healthy Meals

Pasta is a beloved staple that brings comfort and joy to the dinner table. When combined with fresh vegetables, it transforms into a vibrant, nutritious, and delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

This pasta recipe with vegetables is not only easy to prepare but also packed with wholesome ingredients that cater to both vegetarians and those looking to add more plant-based meals to their diet. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a quick weeknight meal, this recipe offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures that everyone will enjoy.

Using a medley of colorful vegetables alongside perfectly cooked pasta creates a dish that is as visually appealing as it is tasty. Plus, it’s highly versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite veggies or whatever you have on hand.

This recipe also serves as a great introduction to cooking with seasonal produce, encouraging a healthy and sustainable approach to eating. Dive in and discover how simple and satisfying a vegetable pasta can be!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pasta with vegetables recipe stands out for several reasons. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights when time is limited.

The recipe uses fresh, wholesome vegetables that add natural sweetness and crunch to your pasta, elevating simple noodles into a gourmet experience.

Another reason to love this dish is its nutritional balance. You get your carbs from the pasta, vitamins and fiber from the vegetables, and healthy fats if you choose to add olive oil or nuts.

It’s a perfect meal to satisfy your hunger while fueling your body with nutrient-dense ingredients.

Finally, it’s highly adaptable. Whether you want to keep it vegan, gluten-free, or add some protein, this recipe can be customized to meet your dietary needs.

For more vegetable-packed meal ideas, check out A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion and Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals.

Ingredients

• 8 oz (225g) pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti work well)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 medium zucchini, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Grated Parmesan cheese or vegan alternative (optional)

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Colander or strainer
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Mixing bowl (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Prepare the vegetables: While the pasta cooks, wash and chop all the vegetables as listed.
3. Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
4. Cook the vegetables: Add the sliced bell peppers, zucchini, broccoli, and mushrooms to the skillet. Stir occasionally and cook for 6-8 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
5. Add cherry tomatoes and seasoning: Toss in the cherry tomatoes, chili flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until tomatoes soften slightly.
6. Combine pasta and vegetables: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour in the reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce and help everything combine beautifully.
7. Finish with herbs and lemon: Stir in chopped fresh basil and lemon juice. Mix well to coat the pasta evenly.
8. Serve: Transfer to plates or bowls. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan or vegan cheese if desired. Serve immediately while warm.

Tips & Variations

Tip: Use seasonal vegetables for the freshest flavors and best nutritional value. Roasting some vegetables before adding them can add a wonderful depth of flavor.

Vegetarian or vegan? Replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese alternative to keep it dairy-free.

Variation idea: Add cooked chickpeas or white beans for extra protein. You can also incorporate a splash of balsamic vinegar or a handful of toasted pine nuts for added texture and flavor.

For more spice inspiration, check out the Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend.

Nutrition Facts

Note: Nutrition facts vary depending on specific ingredients and portion size.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta with vegetables shines as a standalone meal, but you can elevate your dinner by pairing it with complementary sides. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette adds freshness and crunch.

Garlic bread or warm focaccia complements the pasta’s texture and richness beautifully.

For a heartier meal, serve alongside a bowl of soup such as a light tomato basil or a creamy vegan butternut squash soup. If you want some extra protein, grilled tofu or roasted chickpeas make fantastic additions.

Looking for more delicious vegetarian pasta ideas? Don’t miss our collection of Amazing Vegan Pasta Recipes for Easy Delicious Meals and Banza Pasta Recipes Vegan Lovers Will Adore.

Conclusion

This pasta recipe with vegetables is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a dish that’s both nourishing and satisfying. Its ease of preparation and flexibility make it a fantastic recipe to keep in your repertoire for busy days or when you want a comforting yet healthy meal.

The balance of fresh vegetables, fragrant herbs, and perfectly cooked pasta delivers vibrant flavors that will please any palate.

By exploring variations and incorporating your favorite seasonal vegetables, you can make this dish uniquely yours every time you cook it. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to increase your vegetable intake and enjoy a colorful plate of food.

Try this recipe today and discover just how enjoyable vegetable-packed pasta can be!

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