Pasta is a beloved staple across cuisines, and making your own dough is a rewarding way to bring fresh flavors and textures to your kitchen. But what if you could take it a step further and infuse your pasta dough with wholesome vegetables?
This veg pasta dough recipe does just that, combining the vibrant colors and nutrition of vegetables with the comforting, chewy texture of homemade pasta. Whether you’re aiming for a healthier option or simply want to impress guests with a unique twist, this vegetable-infused pasta dough will elevate your pasta dishes to a new level.
Incorporating vegetables directly into the dough not only adds subtle flavor but also boosts the nutritional profile, making it a fantastic choice for families and health-conscious foodies alike. Plus, making pasta from scratch is easier than you think!
With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have fresh, colorful pasta ready in no time. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will inspire your next pasta night.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This veg pasta dough recipe is a game changer for several reasons. First, it brings together the best of both worlds: the wholesome goodness of vegetables and the satisfying texture of fresh pasta.
The dough is soft, pliable, and easy to work with, making it perfect for shaping into fettuccine, ravioli, or any pasta form you desire.
Second, the vibrant colors from the veggies make your pasta visually stunning, turning any meal into a feast for the eyes and palate. It’s a fantastic way to sneak extra nutrients into your meals, especially for picky eaters who might otherwise avoid vegetables.
Lastly, it’s customizable! You can adapt the recipe based on the vegetables you have on hand or your flavor preferences.
This versatility makes it an excellent base recipe for experimenting with different tastes and textures.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked and pureed spinach (well-drained to avoid excess moisture)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Optional: 1/4 cup cooked and pureed carrot or beetroot (for additional color and flavor)
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Fork or whisk
- Rolling pin or pasta machine
- Clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap
- Knife or pasta cutter
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooking pot for boiling pasta
- Colander or strainer
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables: Begin by cooking your spinach until wilted, then squeeze out as much moisture as possible. Puree it until smooth. If you want to add carrot or beetroot, cook and puree them separately, then combine with the spinach puree.
- Make the dough base: In a large mixing bowl, place the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and crack the eggs into it. Add the olive oil and the vegetable puree.
- Mix the dough: Using a fork, gently whisk the eggs and puree together, gradually incorporating the flour from the sides of the well. Continue mixing until the dough starts to come together.
- Knead the dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead it for about 8-10 minutes until smooth, elastic, and no longer sticky. If it feels too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour, but be careful not to add too much.
- Rest the dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap or cover it with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for at least 30 minutes at room temperature. This resting period allows the gluten to relax, making rolling easier.
- Roll and shape the pasta: Once rested, roll out the dough using a rolling pin or pasta machine to your desired thickness. Cut into your preferred shapes—fettuccine, tagliatelle, or even use it to make filled pasta like ravioli.
- Cook your pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fresh pasta and cook for 2-4 minutes until al dente. Fresh pasta cooks much faster than dried.
- Drain and serve: Carefully drain the pasta using a colander and toss with your favorite sauce or simply a drizzle of olive oil and fresh herbs.
Tips & Variations
“Make sure your vegetable purees are as dry as possible to avoid soggy dough.”
To achieve the best texture, always squeeze out excess moisture from your vegetables before pureeing. Spinach and beetroot, in particular, can hold a lot of water, so this step is crucial.
If you want a gluten-free version, try substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, though you may need to adjust the liquid content slightly. For vegan pasta dough, replace eggs with a flaxseed or chia seed egg substitute and add a bit more olive oil for elasticity.
Feel free to experiment with different vegetable purees such as pumpkin, sweet potato, or kale to add unique flavors and colors. You can also add herbs like basil or oregano directly into the dough for an aromatic twist.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving (approx.) |
---|---|
Calories | 180 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 30 g |
Protein | 7 g |
Fat | 4 g |
Fiber | 2 g |
Vitamin A | 15% Daily Value* |
Iron | 10% Daily Value* |
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
Serving Suggestions
Vegetable pasta dough pairs beautifully with a variety of sauces and toppings. For a light and fresh option, toss your pasta with a simple Vegan Bechamel Sauce or a drizzle of garlic-infused olive oil and fresh herbs.
For something heartier, try it with a chunky vegetable marinara loaded with bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms, or even a creamy avocado sauce. You can also use this dough to make ravioli, stuffed with ricotta and spinach or roasted vegetables for a special meal.
Looking for more vegetable-forward dishes? Check out these recipes for inspiration:
- Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals
- Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners
- Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas
Conclusion
Making your own vegetable-infused pasta dough is a wonderful way to add color, flavor, and nutrition to your meals. This recipe is approachable enough for beginners yet versatile enough to inspire creative cooks.
By incorporating fresh greens like spinach or vibrant veggies like beets, you’re not just crafting a beautiful dish but also a nourishing one that your whole family can enjoy.
With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can transform a basic pasta dough into an exciting culinary experience. Plus, the homemade touch always impresses at the dinner table.
So gather your favorite vegetables, roll up your sleeves, and dive into making fresh pasta that’s as delightful to eat as it is to create. Don’t forget to explore other vegetable-rich recipes on the site to keep your meals wholesome and delicious!
📖 Recipe Card: Veg Pasta Dough Recipe
Description: A nutritious homemade pasta dough infused with vegetable puree for added flavor and color. Perfect for making fresh, vibrant pasta at home.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT0M
Total Time: PT15M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup spinach puree
- 1/4 cup carrot puree
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2-3 tablespoons water (as needed)
Instructions
- Sift the flour and salt into a large bowl.
- Mix spinach and carrot puree together.
- Make a well in the flour and add the egg, vegetable puree, and olive oil.
- Gradually mix the flour into the wet ingredients until dough forms.
- Add water a tablespoon at a time if the dough is too dry.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth.
- Wrap dough in plastic and let rest for 30 minutes before rolling.
Nutrition: Calories: 220 | Protein: 7g | Fat: 5g | Carbs: 35g
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