Print

Creamy Veg Pasta

Creamy Veg Pasta
Print Recipe

Creamy Veg Pasta is a quick and delicious dinner featuring tender pasta tossed with fresh bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and spinach in a luscious creamy sauce made with heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Ready in under 30 minutes, this comforting and customizable dish is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy meals, offering a balance of vibrant flavors, wholesome nutrients, and family-friendly appeal.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 250g penne, fusilli, or your favorite pasta shape

Vegetables

  • 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
  • 1 cup diced zucchini
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 cups fresh spinach

Sauce and Seasonings

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (for vegan option)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for vegan option)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh herbs (basil or parsley), chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain the pasta and reserve one cup of the pasta water for later use.
  2. Sauté the vegetables: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the diced bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. Sauté for 5 to 7 minutes, until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant in color.
  3. Create the creamy sauce: Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream or coconut milk. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and allow it to melt, thickening the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water gradually until the desired consistency is reached.
  4. Combine pasta and sauce: Add the drained pasta to the pan with the vegetable cream sauce. Gently toss to coat all the pasta evenly. Stir in fresh spinach and herbs, letting the spinach wilt slightly before serving.
  5. Final touch and serve: Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. For added flavor and presentation, sprinkle extra Parmesan and fresh herbs on top. Serve immediately while warm and creamy.

Notes

  • Use reserved pasta water to help the sauce cling better and achieve a silky texture.
  • Do not overcook the vegetables; keep them slightly crisp to preserve texture and color.
  • Add fresh herbs toward the end to retain their vibrant flavor and aroma.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best melting and sauce texture.
  • Simmer the cream gently and avoid boiling to prevent curdling or separation.

Nutrition

Keywords: Creamy Veg Pasta, vegetarian pasta recipe, quick dinner, creamy pasta, vegetable pasta, family-friendly dinner, healthy pasta, gluten-free pasta option, vegan pasta

Find it online: https://marygourmet.com/creamy-veg-pasta/