Oh boy, do I have a treat for you today! Let me tell you about my absolute favorite: One-Pan Veggie Pasta. This dish is a lifesaver for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious, healthy, and ready in just a snap! I remember the first time I whipped this up after a long day at work. I was dead tired but craving a hearty meal, and lo and behold, I ended up with this colorful, flavorful feast that brightened my evening.
What makes this recipe even more special is its adaptability – you can throw in whatever veggies you have lying around, and it still tastes incredible. The best part? There’s almost no clean-up afterward! I think we can all agree kitchen messes is the real enemy when you’re trying to unwind after a long day. So, let’s dive in and get cooking, shall we?
What’s in One-Pan Veggie Pasta?
Pasta: I love using whole wheat pasta for added fiber and nutrients, but feel free to use your favorite type—brown rice, gluten-free, or even zucchini noodles, if you’re feeling adventurous!
Vegetables: This is where the fun begins! You can switch things up based on your preferences or what you have in the fridge. I typically stick to bell peppers, spinach, and cherry tomatoes for a delightful burst of color and taste.
Onion and Garlic: These two are the flavor powerhouses! Fresh onions and minced garlic give the dish that savory kick that makes you keep going back for more.
Olive Oil: A splash of good quality olive oil ties everything together nicely, enriching the dish with healthy fats.
Vegetable Broth: Instead of water, I recommend using vegetable broth for extra flavor. Look for low-sodium options if you’re watching your salt intake.
Italian Seasoning: A sprinkle of this blend amplifies the dish with aromatic herbs—think basil, oregano, and thyme. It makes everything taste like a cozy Italian kitchen!
Is One-Pan Veggie Pasta Good for You?
Oh, absolutely! This dish is packed with goodies that your body will thank you for.
Whole Wheat Pasta: It’s high in fiber, which helps keep you full longer and promotes healthy digestion.
Vegetables: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants—plus, you get to eat the rainbow! Eating a variety of vegetables helps improve overall health.
Olive Oil: Rich in healthy monounsaturated fats, it’s known to support heart health. Plus, it can help your body absorb nutrients from the veggies better.
Although this dish is healthy, moderation is key. If you’re watching your carbohydrate intake, just adjust the amount of pasta you use or pair it with a lean protein, like grilled chicken or tofu, for a balanced meal.
Ingredients
– 8 oz whole wheat pasta (your choice)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 cups fresh spinach (or your choice of greens)
– 3 cups vegetable broth (low sodium)
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
This recipe serves about 4 folks, making it perfect for a cozy family dinner or meal prep for the week.
How to Make One-Pan Veggie Pasta?
1. In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it; burnt garlic turns bitter!
3. Toss in the chopped bell pepper and halved cherry tomatoes. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
4. Now, it’s time to add the pasta! Pour in the vegetable broth and bring everything to a boil.
5. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes or until the pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally.
6. Once the pasta is cooked, add in the fresh spinach and season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until the spinach wilts down and everything is combined.
7. Serve immediately topped with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Serving Suggestions & Tips for the Best One-Pan Veggie Pasta
– Feel free to customize the veggies based on your personal preference! Broccoli, zucchini, or even frozen peas can all work wonders.
– For some extra protein, toss in some chickpeas or cooked shrimp towards the end of the cooking process.
– If you enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!
I hope you’ll give this One-Pan Veggie Pasta a go! I promise it’s one of those dishes that you can whip up even on the busiest of days, and your taste buds will dance in delight. Please let me know how it turns out for you; I can’t wait to hear your thoughts! Happy cooking!
