If you are craving a dish that is both comforting and vibrant, this Pasta with Tomato Sauce and Vegetables Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines perfectly cooked pasta with a luscious, homemade tomato sauce full of fresh vegetables that add bursts of flavor and texture in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that manages to be both simple and satisfying, highlighting the best of garden-fresh ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the foundation of any delicious meal. For this Pasta with Tomato Sauce and Vegetables Recipe, each element plays a crucial role in building up layers of flavor, texture, and inviting color, making the dish come alive from the very first stir.
- 8 oz pasta: Choose your favorite type; penne or fusilli work wonderfully to hold the sauce well.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Adds a rich, fruity undertone and is perfect for sautéing vegetables.
- 1 onion, diced: Provides sweetness and depth when cooked down gently.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings aromatic warmth and a touch of pungency to the sauce.
- 1 bell pepper, chopped: Adds a slight crunch and bright, sweet notes.
- 1 zucchini, sliced: Offers tender texture and mild flavor, absorbing the sauce beautifully.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Bursting with juiciness and vibrant color to freshen up the sauce.
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes: The heart of the sauce, providing richness and a luscious body.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: Infuses the dish with classic Mediterranean herbal hints.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance all flavors.
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving: Adds a savory, nutty finish that melts perfectly over hot pasta.
How to Make Pasta with Tomato Sauce and Vegetables Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by boiling your pasta in generously salted water according to the package instructions until it reaches a tender yet firm texture. Once cooked, drain the pasta but hold onto a bit of the pasta water just in case you want to loosen the sauce later. This simple step ensures your pasta is perfectly al dente and ready to soak up all the wonderful flavors.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion
Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat, then add the diced onion. Cook the onion gently until it becomes translucent and fragrant, which usually takes about five minutes. This step is crucial because it forms a sweet, flavorful base for the rest of your dish that really draws everything together.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Vegetables
Next, toss in the minced garlic, chopped bell pepper, and zucchini slices. Stir them nicely to coat with the olive oil and sauté for five to seven minutes. You want the vegetables to soften without losing their vibrant color or texture. This layering of fresh veggies adds a satisfying crunch and natural sweetness to the sauce.
Step 4: Build the Tomato Sauce
Now, stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and canned crushed tomatoes along with the dried oregano. Let everything simmer gently for five to ten minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down and the flavors to marry. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper – this final seasoning step brings out the best in your sauce and vegetables.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Once the sauce has developed its rich flavor, add the cooked pasta right into the pan. Toss carefully to mix the pasta with the sauce and vegetables, making sure every piece gets coated. Heat everything through for a few minutes so the pasta absorbs some of that gorgeous sauce.
Step 6: Serve Hot with Parmesan
Serve your pasta steaming hot with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top. The cheese melts slowly over the warmth, adding a luxurious, slightly salty finish that perfectly complements the fresh tomato and vegetable medley.
How to Serve Pasta with Tomato Sauce and Vegetables Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley alongside a dusting of Parmesan cheese brightens up the plate beautifully. For a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes adds an exciting kick without overpowering the delicate balance of the sauce.
Side Dishes
This Pasta with Tomato Sauce and Vegetables Recipe pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad or garlic bread to soak up every last drop of sauce. A chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon can also enhance the meal’s fresh and vibrant notes.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this pasta inside hollowed-out bell pepper halves or cute mini tomato cups. Another charming presentation is layering the pasta and sauce in a clear glass bowl, showcasing the colorful vegetables and inviting sauce, perfect for entertaining guests at your next dinner party.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pasta and sauce will keep wonderfully fresh for up to three days, making for an easy and quick lunch or dinner the next day.
Freezing
If you want to prepare in advance, this dish freezes well. Portion the pasta with sauce into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to two months. Be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to preserve the texture and flavor of the vegetables.
Reheating
Gently reheat your leftovers in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce feels too thick. Alternatively, use the microwave on medium power to warm it through evenly without drying it out, stirring occasionally for best results.
FAQs
Can I use different vegetables in this Pasta with Tomato Sauce and Vegetables Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap or add vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or eggplant. The sauce is versatile and welcomes various veggies that suit your taste or what’s in season.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Short pasta like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni is ideal because their shapes hold the sauce beautifully. However, any pasta you love can be used here.
Is this Pasta with Tomato Sauce and Vegetables Recipe suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, it can be made vegan simply by omitting the Parmesan cheese or using a plant-based alternative. The sauce and vegetables provide plenty of flavor and satisfaction on their own.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! Use gluten-free pasta varieties to make this dish friendly for those avoiding gluten without compromising on taste or texture.
How can I make the sauce richer or spicier?
For a richer sauce, adding a splash of cream or a bit of butter at the end works wonderfully. If you like spice, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can easily bring some heat.
Final Thoughts
This Pasta with Tomato Sauce and Vegetables Recipe is one of those timeless dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s straightforward enough for weeknight dinners but impressive enough to share with loved ones on special occasions. Give it a try, and I promise it will become one of your favorite go-to meals, full of fresh flavors and endless comfort.
Print
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 delicious and healthy pasta dish featuring tender pasta tossed in a flavorful tomato sauce loaded with sautéed vegetables, including bell pepper, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, combining wholesome ingredients and classic Italian flavors topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz pasta
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: Boil the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside to be combined with the sauce later.
- Sauté the onions: Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it becomes translucent and soft, about 5 minutes.
- Cook the vegetables: Add the minced garlic, chopped bell pepper, and sliced zucchini to the pan. Continue to cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften but still retain some texture.
- Add tomatoes and seasonings: Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, and dried oregano. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 5 to 10 minutes, letting the flavors meld together. Season with salt and pepper according to taste.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the drained pasta into the pan with the tomato and vegetable sauce. Toss gently to ensure the pasta is evenly coated and heated through.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese to taste for added richness and flavor.
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, substitute the pasta with gluten-free pasta varieties.
- You can add extra vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for more nutrients.
- Use fresh herbs like basil instead of dried oregano for a brighter flavor.
- If you prefer a spicier sauce, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
