Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a delicious, healthy meal that's also quick to make? Then look no further! This creamy vegetable pasta recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's packed with flavor, vibrant vegetables, and a creamy sauce that will leave you wanting more. This easy recipe is perfect for homemade cooking and is one of the best recipes for a healthy and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 zucchini, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for a vegan option
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, omit for vegan)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Get started:
- Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the vegetables:
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
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Stir in the garlic, carrots, zucchini, and bell pepper. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Create the creamy sauce:
- Add the diced tomatoes (undrained), vegetable broth, heavy cream (or coconut cream), oregano, and basil to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Combine and serve:
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Stir in the cooked pasta and Parmesan cheese (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.
Tips for the Best Creamy Vegetable Pasta:
- Don't overcook the vegetables: You want them to be tender-crisp, not mushy.
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh herbs will add a brighter, more vibrant flavor to the sauce.
- Adjust the seasonings to your taste: Feel free to add more or less of any spice to suit your preferences.
- Add protein: For a heartier meal, add cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to the pasta.
Variations:
- Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little kick.
- Cheesy: Add more Parmesan cheese, or try other cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar.
- Herby: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or marjoram.
- Creamy without cream: For a lighter version, use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: 350-450 (depending on ingredients and serving size)
- Protein: 10-15g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
- Fiber: 5-7g
This creamy vegetable pasta recipe is a quick, easy, and healthy dinner option perfect for busy weeknights. It’s a delicious and satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy. It’s a versatile dish that can be easily adapted to your own tastes and dietary needs. Enjoy this delicious and easy food recipe!