Welcome to a delightful and incredibly simple recipe that will transform your weeknight dinners: our Veggie Packed Pasta! In today’s fast-paced world, finding a meal that is both healthy and quick to prepare can be a challenge. This recipe ticks all the boxes, offering a nutritious, flavorful, and satisfying dish that comes together in just 40 minutes, with minimal cleanup.

This pasta dish is a celebration of fresh, vibrant vegetables, lightly seasoned and simmered to perfection in a savory broth with crushed tomatoes. It’s a fantastic way to incorporate more greens into your diet without sacrificing taste. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, you’ll find this recipe straightforward and enjoyable to make. Plus, it’s easily adaptable to your family’s preferences or whatever fresh produce you have on hand.

Why You’ll Love This Veggie Packed Pasta

• Quick & Easy: With only 15 minutes of prep and 25 minutes of cook time, it’s ideal for busy evenings.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with zucchini, onion, and bell pepper, it’s a great source of vitamins and fiber.
• Flavorful & Satisfying: The blend of dried basil and oregano with crushed tomatoes creates a rich, comforting taste that doesn’t feel heavy.
• One-Pot Potential: The method outlined allows you to cook everything in one large pot, reducing dishwashing.
• Versatile: Easily customizable with different vegetables, proteins, or spices to suit your palate.
• Family-Friendly: A universally appealing dish that even picky eaters will enjoy, especially when the veggies are finely diced.

Let’s dive into how you can bring this wholesome and delicious Veggie Packed Pasta to your table tonight!

Serving Suggestions

This Veggie Packed Pasta is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a few simple additions. Serve it hot, garnished with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor. A side salad with a light vinaigrette or some crusty garlic bread would complement this dish beautifully. For added protein, consider stirring in some cooked chickpeas or white beans at the end of the cooking process.

Customization & Variations

One of the best aspects of this Veggie Packed Pasta is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients to match your taste or what you have available:

• Add More Vegetables: Sauté mushrooms, spinach, kale (add during the last 5 minutes of simmering), carrots, or even corn alongside the other veggies.
• Boost Protein: Cooked chicken breast, Italian sausage, ground turkey, or lentils can be added to make it a heartier meal. For a vegetarian protein boost, consider canned cannellini beans or chickpeas, stirred in during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Spice It Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes added with the dried herbs will give it a subtle kick.
• Creamy Texture: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
• Fresh Herbs: Finish with fresh basil, oregano, or parsley for a burst of fresh flavor.
• Cheese Please: Besides Parmesan, a sprinkle of mozzarella or feta cheese can be a delicious addition.
• Different Pasta Shapes: While rotini works great, feel free to use penne, fusilli, farfalle, or even elbow macaroni. Just ensure it’s a short pasta shape that will cook evenly in the pot.

Meal Prep & Storage Tips

This Veggie Packed Pasta makes for excellent leftovers! It’s perfect for meal prepping your lunches for the week or enjoying another easy dinner. Here’s how to store it:

• Refrigeration: Allow the pasta to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. You might need to add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen the sauce as the pasta tends to absorb liquid upon standing.
• Freezing: This dish can also be frozen, though the texture of the zucchini might become slightly softer upon thawing. Freeze in airtight, freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

The Health Benefits of Our Veggie Packed Pasta

Beyond its delicious taste and ease of preparation, this pasta dish offers significant nutritional advantages. Zucchini is a low-calorie vegetable rich in water and fiber, aiding digestion and promoting satiety. Bell peppers are packed with Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that supports immune function and skin health. Onions add a distinct flavor profile while also contributing antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. Paired with whole grain pasta (if chosen) and a tomato-based sauce, which provides lycopene (another potent antioxidant), this meal is a powerhouse of essential nutrients. It’s a smart choice for anyone looking to eat well without compromising on flavor or convenience.

Final Thoughts on Your New Favorite Weeknight Meal

This Veggie Packed Pasta isn’t just a recipe; it’s a solution for busy evenings when you crave something wholesome, comforting, and quick. It brings together the simple joy of pasta with the vibrant goodness of fresh vegetables, all seasoned perfectly to create a meal that truly satisfies. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or simply want a delicious, light, and healthy-ish meal, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. We hope you enjoy making and savoring every forkful!