Pasta with Vegetables
Prep 15 min | Cook 10 min | Ready in 25 min
Ingredients:
12 ounces (340g) dried pasta of your choice (penne, fusilli, or farfalle work well)
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 zucchini, halved lengthwise and thinly sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup broccoli florets
1 cup baby spinach or kale leaves
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of spice)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves, torn, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it's al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta. Set the cooked pasta aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Add the sliced red and yellow bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and broccoli florets to the pan. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp and lightly browned.
3. Combine the Pasta and Vegetables:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Toss everything together to combine.
If the pasta seems dry, add a little of the reserved pasta cooking water, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
4. Season and Add Cheese:
Season the pasta and vegetables with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) according to your taste.
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and vegetables. Toss everything together to evenly coat the pasta with the cheese.
5. Add Spinach or Kale:
Turn off the heat, and while the pasta is still warm, add the baby spinach or kale leaves to the skillet. The residual heat will wilt the greens without overcooking them.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Transfer the Pasta with Vegetables to serving plates or a large bowl.
Garnish with torn fresh basil leaves and additional grated Parmesan cheese.
Enjoy your delicious and wholesome Pasta with Vegetables! This recipe provides a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a perfect dish for lunch or dinner. It's a versatile recipe that you can adapt with your favorite vegetables or add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein. Buon appetito!
