Pasta with vegetable sauce is a vibrant, hearty and wholesome dish that brings together the best of seasonal vegetables in rich and flavorful tomato-based sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or cozy weekend meal, this dish offers a balance of texture and flavor, with tender pasta coated in sauce brimming with sauteed onion, garlic, bell pepper, zucchini, carrot and mushrooms. It¡¯s a great way to incorporate more vegetables in your diet, while enjoying a comforting bowl of pasta. Customize the vegetables to suit your taste or what¡¯s in season, and top it off with a sprinkle of Parmesan or fresh herbs for a delightful finishing touch.
INGREDIENTS:
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? 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, spaghetti, or your favorite type)
? 2 tbsp olive oil
? 1 medium onion, diced
? 3 cloves garlic, minced
? 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
? 1 medium zucchini, diced
? 2 medium carrots, diced
? 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
? 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
? 1/4 cup tomato paste
? 1 tsp dried oregano
? 1 tsp dried basil
? 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
? Salt and pepper to taste
? Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
? Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
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INSTRUCTIONS:
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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. Drain and
set aside.
2. Prepare the vegetable sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and saut¨¦ until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the vegetables: Stir in the bell pepper, zucchini, carrots, and mushrooms. Cook for 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are
softened.
4. Build the sauce: Add the diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato paste, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt and pepper. Stir well
to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
5. Combine pasta and sauce: Once the sauce is ready, add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently to coat the pasta evenly with the vegetable
sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to let the pasta absorb some of the sauce.
6. Serve: Divide the pasta among plates, garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and sprinkle with grated Parmesan if desired. Enjoy!
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This simple and delicious dish pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread.
