If you are craving a vibrant, comforting meal that’s both wholesome and bursting with flavor, then you are going to love this Pasta with Tomato Sauce and Vegetables Recipe. It is a joyful celebration of fresh veggies swimming in a luscious tomato sauce, perfectly coating tender pasta to create a dish that’s simple yet incredibly satisfying. Ideal for a weeknight dinner or when you want a little something special on the table without fuss, this recipe showcases how a handful of humble ingredients can come together to create a memorable, home-cooked delight.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is where this Pasta with Tomato Sauce and Vegetables Recipe truly begins to shine. Each component plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color that will make your dish irresistible.
- 8 oz pasta: Choose your favorite variety to soak up all the delicious sauce perfectly.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: A rich base for sautéing that adds a subtle fruity richness.
- 1 onion, diced: Gives a mellow sweetness once softened, creating depth in the sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with a fragrant warmth that wakes up the senses.
- 1 bell pepper, chopped: Adds a pop of color and a gentle crunch for texture contrast.
- 1 zucchini, sliced: Softens nicely while adding a fresh green note and subtle earthiness.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Bursts of juicy sweetness that brighten the sauce naturally.
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes: Forms the rich, velvety base that ties every ingredient together.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: Offers a hint of herbal aroma, evoking classic Italian flavors.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance every flavor in the dish.
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving: The perfect finishing touch that adds a salty, nutty complexity.
How to Make Pasta with Tomato Sauce and Vegetables Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to the package instructions. This ensures that your noodles come out perfectly al dente, providing just the right bite to complement the saucy vegetables. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook gently until it becomes translucent, about five minutes. This step is crucial because the softened onions lay the flavorful groundwork for the sauce, releasing a natural sweetness that melds beautifully with the garlic and vegetables to come.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
Next, toss in the minced garlic, chopped bell pepper, and zucchini slices. Stir them often as they cook for five to seven minutes; you want the veggies to soften without losing their character. This mixture brings a lovely variety of textures and vibrant colors that energize the dish and add wholesome nutrition.
Step 4: Simmer the Tomato Sauce
Add the halved cherry tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, and dried oregano to the pan. Stir everything together and let it simmer for five to ten minutes, allowing the flavors to blend and intensify. This step is what transforms the sauce into a thick, aromatic masterpiece. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste—you want that perfect, balanced savoriness that makes every bite sing.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Now it’s time to bring it all together. Add the cooked pasta directly into the pan with your sauce and vegetables. Gently toss and stir to coat the noodles thoroughly, making sure every strand gets a generous helping of that rich tomato goodness. Heat the mixture through for a couple of minutes, ensuring the dish is warm and ready to serve.
Step 6: Serve with Parmesan
Dish out the pasta onto plates or bowls and finish with a hearty sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. This final touch adds creaminess and a savory depth that elevates the entire meal while inviting everyone to dig in with anticipation.
How to Serve Pasta with Tomato Sauce and Vegetables Recipe
Garnishes
To add a little extra flair and flavor, consider garnishing with fresh basil leaves, crushed red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil. Each of these options can enhance the dish’s aroma and offer both a fresh and subtly spicy counterpoint that keeps things interesting.
Side Dishes
A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette complements this pasta perfectly, bringing a refreshing crunch to your meal. Garlic bread or a warm, crusty loaf also works wonderfully for soaking up any leftover sauce, making your dining experience even more satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party or a fun family meal, consider serving this pasta in individual small bowls topped with Parmesan shavings and a sprig of fresh parsley. Or layer the pasta with the sauce and vegetables in a pretty glass casserole dish for a colorful, inviting presentation that will delight your guests before they even taste the first bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Pasta with Tomato Sauce and Vegetables Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep the cheese separate until ready to serve if you want to maintain its fresh texture and flavor.
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully, making it a great option for meal prepping. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to two months. Just remember to thaw thoroughly in the refrigerator before reheating for the best results.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the pasta gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it feels dry. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to heat evenly and retain the pasta’s tender texture and sauce’s vibrant flavors.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile and works well with almost any pasta shape. Whether you prefer penne, fusilli, or spaghetti, the sauce will cling beautifully and deliver plenty of flavor.
What vegetables can I substitute or add?
Feel free to customize with what you have on hand. Mushrooms, spinach, eggplant, or even peas make great additions or swaps. Just adjust the cooking times slightly to ensure everything is tender and flavorful.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes! Simply skip the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative to keep it entirely vegan while maintaining its rich, savory appeal.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! Using gluten-free pasta varieties ensures everyone can enjoy this tasty meal without compromising on texture or taste.
What is the best way to enhance the flavor of the sauce?
Adding a splash of red wine during the simmering step or a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity can elevate the sauce wonderfully. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme stirred in at the end also add a bright, fresh note.
Final Thoughts
This Pasta with Tomato Sauce and Vegetables Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug after a long day. Its vibrant colors, comforting textures, and simple yet bold flavors make it a staple you’ll want to keep coming back to. Give it a try and enjoy the delightful, nourishing experience it brings to your table!
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Pasta with Tomato Sauce and Vegetables Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A vibrant and hearty pasta dish featuring a flavorful tomato sauce enriched with sautéed vegetables. Perfect for a quick and wholesome weeknight meal, this recipe combines tender pasta with a savory blend of onion, garlic, bell pepper, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes, finished with aromatic oregano and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 8 oz pasta
For the Sauce and Vegetables
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Sauté the Onion: Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Vegetables: Stir in the minced garlic, chopped bell pepper, and zucchini slices. Continue cooking for another 5 to 7 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften but still retain some texture.
- Simmer the Tomato Sauce: Add the halved cherry tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, and dried oregano to the pan. Mix well and simmer on low heat for 5 to 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta into the sauce and vegetable mixture. Toss gently to combine and heat through for 1 to 2 minutes.
- Serve: Plate the pasta topped with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- You can substitute regular pasta with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for dietary preferences.
- For added protein, consider adding cooked chicken or beans.
- Fresh herbs like basil can be added just before serving for a fresh flavor boost.
- Adjust the seasoning according to taste, especially salt and pepper.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
