Simple Vegan Pasta Recipe

The world of vegan cuisine offers a plethora of exciting flavors and options for those looking to enjoy delicious meals without the use of animal products. One such dish that has gained immense popularity is simple vegan pasta. This recipe is perfect for beginners in the kitchen and provides a hearty meal for 4 servings, taking approximately 30 minutes to prepare.

Ingredients required for this delightful pasta are as follows:

• 200 grams of whole wheat penne pasta
• 1 medium-sized onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 cups of cherry tomatoes, halved (or any other type of tomato)
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons of dried basil
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• Black pepper to taste
• A handful of fresh parsley for garnishing

To start, bring a large pot of water to a boil and add the pasta. Once it has been cooked until al dente (about 8-10 minutes), drain well and set aside.

While the pasta is boiling, heat up 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent. Then add the garlic and stir for another minute or so to release its fragrance. Next, toss the cherry tomatoes into the mixture and season with salt and dried basil.

Allow all these ingredients to simmer together while you return the pasta to the pot. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, along with freshly ground black pepper according to your taste preferences. Mix everything well so that every noodle gets coated in the sauce.

If you desire, this dish can also be served with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for added color and freshness. You could even consider adding some vegan parmesan cheese shreds if desired. This would make an excellent choice as part of your evening meal or brunch menu.

Health Benefits

This simple vegan pasta dish is rich in vital nutrients like fiber, iron, and vitamins C & K. By choosing whole wheat penne instead of refined flour alternatives, you ensure that this meal provides sustained energy levels throughout the day due to its complex carbohydrates content.

Customization Ideas

If you're looking for variations beyond what is mentioned above, here are some ideas:

1. Add vegetables: Feel free to include bell peppers, zucchini slices, or even spinach leaves once the pasta has been added back into the sauce.
2. Incorporate plant-based proteins: If you like it more substantial, consider adding cooked chickpeas or black beans to boost protein intake without sacrificing taste.
3. Change up the flavor profile: Try substituting basil with oregano for a Mediterranean twist or experiment by adding different herbs like thyme or rosemary.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility; feel free to experiment and adjust based on your personal taste. Whether enjoyed hot straight from the pan or cooled down as leftovers, this simple vegan pasta remains satisfyingly delicious regardless of how you choose to serve it!