Pasta with Tomato Sauce and Vegetables

Pasta with Tomato Sauce and Vegetables is the perfect dish for those who crave a comforting, flavorful, and healthy meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. This simple recipe combines fresh vegetables with a rich tomato sauce, served over pasta for a satisfying and well-rounded dish. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or looking for a vegetarian meal option, this dish delivers a burst of flavor and nutrition that everyone will enjoy. The balance of tender pasta, sautéed vegetables, and savory tomato sauce makes this recipe a crowd-pleaser for family and friends.

This dish is versatile, customizable, and can be made with any vegetables you have on hand. It’s also a great way to use up seasonal produce like zucchini and bell peppers, making it an ideal choice for those looking to eat seasonally and eat healthy. With minimal ingredients and a short cooking time, Pasta with Tomato Sauce and Vegetables is perfect for busy weeknights or a casual dinner that’s both wholesome and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are many reasons to love this recipe, starting with its simplicity and ease. With just a handful of fresh ingredients, you can create a meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying. The combination of vegetables—such as zucchini, bell pepper, and cherry tomatoes—adds layers of flavor and texture to the rich tomato sauce, making every bite interesting. Plus, the grated Parmesan cheese on top adds a salty, umami kick that enhances the overall taste. This dish is perfect for anyone looking for a light yet fulfilling meal that’s packed with fresh ingredients.

Ingredients

• Pasta
• Olive oil
• Onion
• Garlic
• Bell pepper
• Zucchini
• Cherry tomatoes
• Crushed tomatoes
• Dried oregano
• Salt and pepper
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Variations

• Vegetables: You can easily swap in or add other vegetables such as spinach, eggplant, mushrooms, or carrots.
• Protein: Add cooked chicken, sausage, or even chickpeas for a protein boost.
• Herbs: Experiment with fresh basil or thyme in place of dried oregano for a more aromatic flavor.
• Pasta Options: Feel free to use gluten-free pasta, whole wheat pasta, or even spiralized vegetables like zucchini noodles to make this dish lighter.

How to Make the Recipe

1. Cook the Pasta: Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and softened.
3. Add the Vegetables: Stir in the chopped bell pepper, sliced zucchini, and halved cherry tomatoes. Continue to cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Combine with Pasta: Serve the vegetable and tomato sauce over the cooked pasta. Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an added burst of flavor.
6. Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy your fresh and tasty pasta dish!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Seasoning: Adjust the amount of salt and pepper to suit your personal taste. For extra depth of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
• Pasta Cooking Tip: Make sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue cooking slightly once you toss it with the sauce. This helps prevent it from becoming too soft.
• Vegetable Prep: Cut the vegetables into uniform sizes for even cooking and consistency in texture.

How to Serve

This dish is perfect on its own, but you can also pair it with a side of garlic bread or a green salad for a complete meal. It also makes an excellent lunch the next day, as the flavors continue to develop and meld. If you’re entertaining, you can serve it in individual bowls and top each with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or extra Parmesan for a special touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers: If you have leftovers, store the pasta and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of water to keep it moist.

Freezing: This dish freezes well. To freeze, let the pasta and sauce cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and heat on the stovetop.

Reheating: To reheat, simply warm the pasta and sauce over low heat on the stove or in the microwave. Add a small amount of water or broth to prevent the pasta from drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned? Yes, fresh tomatoes can be used. Simply chop them finely and cook them down in the skillet until they release their juices, then continue with the recipe as directed.
2. Can I add more vegetables to this recipe? Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you enjoy, such as mushrooms, spinach, or eggplant.
3. Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, from spaghetti to penne or even gluten-free pasta.
4. How can I make this dish more filling? You can add protein to the dish, such as grilled chicken, ground turkey, or even chickpeas, to make it more filling.
5. Can I make this recipe vegan? Yes, to make it vegan, use plant-based Parmesan and replace the cheese with a vegan alternative or omit it altogether.
6. Can I add more spices? Definitely! Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat, or a dash of Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
7. Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Simply cook the pasta and combine before serving.
8. Can I use store-bought tomato sauce instead of crushed tomatoes? Yes, you can substitute store-bought tomato sauce, but be sure to adjust the seasoning to your taste.
9. Can I make this gluten-free? Yes, just swap the pasta for a gluten-free variety to make the dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
10. How can I make the sauce thicker? If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can let it simmer longer to reduce, or add a small amount of tomato paste to help thicken it.

Conclusion

Pasta with Tomato Sauce and Vegetables is a simple, yet delicious dish that brings together the flavors of fresh vegetables and a rich tomato sauce. This versatile recipe is easy to prepare and can be customized to suit your tastes. Whether you’re serving it for a quick weeknight dinner or making it ahead for meal prep, this pasta dish will become a favorite in your home. Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and enjoy a wholesome, comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

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