Are you craving a comforting, creamy pasta dish but looking for a healthier, veggie-packed option? Then look no further! This Alfredo Pasta Recipe Veg is the perfect solution. Forget heavy cream and excessive cheese; this recipe delivers all the delicious richness of a classic Alfredo sauce, but with the added goodness of fresh vegetables and a lighter touch. It's a simple, delicious, and surprisingly healthy meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend lunch. This easy recipe is perfect for homemade cooking enthusiasts of all levels.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or your favorite shape)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup nutritional yeast (for a cheesy flavor without the dairy overload)
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
-
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
-
Sauté the Vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the broccoli, mushrooms, and peas and cook until tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes.
-
Create the Alfredo Sauce: Stir in the Parmesan cheese, nutritional yeast, vegetable broth, and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
-
Combine and Serve: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the vegetable mixture and toss to coat evenly in the creamy Alfredo sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Cooking Tips for the Best Alfredo Pasta Veg:
- Don't overcook the vegetables: You want them to be tender-crisp, not mushy.
- Adjust the seasonings: Taste the sauce as you go and adjust the salt, pepper, and lemon juice to your liking.
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh parsley adds a bright, fresh flavor to the dish. Other herbs like basil or oregano would also work well.
- Add protein: For a heartier meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to the pasta.
Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach.
- Creamier Sauce: For a richer sauce, you can add a small amount of heavy cream or coconut cream (for a vegan option).
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a healthy and delicious meal. Nutritional values will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. A general estimate per serving would be around 350-400 calories, moderate in protein and carbohydrates, and a good source of fiber and vitamins. Always check nutrition labels on packaged ingredients for more accurate information. This is a great example of a delicious dish using easy recipes for healthy meals.
This Alfredo Pasta Recipe Veg is a fantastic quick dinner idea, perfect for busy weeknights. It's a delicious and satisfying meal that's both healthy and easy to make. Enjoy!