Vegetarian Pasta Recipe: A Delicious Comfort Meal

Are you looking for a simple yet delicious vegetarian pasta recipe that can be prepared in no time? This versatile dish is perfect for those who love quick and easy meals without compromising on taste. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making a hearty vegetarian pasta with fresh vegetables and a creamy tomato sauce.

The cooking time for this recipe is approximately 25 minutes, and it serves four people generously. Let’s dive into the steps to create this delightful meal!

Ingredients

400g of penne pasta
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves of garlic, minced
2 large carrots, sliced thinly
1 bell pepper (any color), diced small
3 tomatoes, finely chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh basil leaves
Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese for topping (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Boil a large pot of water, add salt, and cook penne pasta until it is al dente. Follow the package instructions for precise cooking time as this will vary based on brand.

Bring water to a boil in a large pot over high heat. Salt generously; add pasta and stir occasionally so that pasta doesn’t stick together.
Cook the pasta for about 8-10 minutes or until al dente, as per package instructions.
Reserve some cooking water before draining the pasta to use later when incorporating into the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Add chopped onions and sauté for about 5 minutes or until translucent.

Add minced garlic and continue to cook for another minute without letting it burn.
Throw in the sliced carrots and diced bell peppers. Stir frequently as they may release a lot of moisture which would help deglaze the pan later.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Mix chopped tomatoes into the sautéed vegetables. Let them simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure the pasta sauce doesn’t catch in the bottom of the pan. During this time, season with salt and pepper to taste.

Topping Suggestions

Garnish with fresh basil leaves to enhance flavor.
Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or any cheese for extra richness.

Step 4: Serve Hot

Pour the cooked al dente pasta into the pan, stirring gently until thoroughly combined. Adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot with optional toppings and enjoy your delicious vegetarian pasta!

Tips for Success

To save time, you can use jarred tomatoes instead of fresh ones.
For a creamier sauce, add a cup of heavy cream to the mix towards the end of cooking.
If you prefer more or less spice in your pasta, feel free to adjust the amount of garlic and pepper accordingly.

Conclusion

This vegetarian pasta recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious. With a variety of fresh vegetables and herbs that add depth to the flavors, this dish can be customized according to your personal taste preferences. Whether you are hosting friends for dinner or just want to treat yourself to something comforting after a long day at work, this vegetarian pasta will surely satisfy everyone’s appetite.

Experiment with different types of pasta like spirals or fusilli if you wish to try something new. Additionally, feel free to add protein sources such as tofu, chickpeas, or any leftover meats for an added dimension to the meal. This versatile recipe can be a part of your regular dinner rotation and make every mealtime more enjoyable!