Meatless Mondays are a great way to incorporate more plant-based foods into your diet, and vegetable pasta dishes are a delicious and nutritious option to consider. Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or simply looking to add more variety to your meal plan, these 10 healthy and creative vegetable pasta recipes are sure to satisfy you.
1. Zucchini Noodle Pasta with Tomato Sauce
This simple and healthy pasta dish is made with zucchini noodles and a flavorful tomato sauce. To make the tomato sauce, sauté garlic and onion in olive oil until softened. Add canned whole tomatoes, tomato paste, fresh basil, and red pepper flakes to the pan and let simmer until the sauce has thickened. Toss the zucchini noodles in the sauce and serve with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
2. Spaghetti Squash Carbonara
Spaghetti squash is a delicious and low-carb alternative to traditional pasta, and it pairs perfectly with a creamy carbonara sauce. To make the sauce, whisk together egg yolks, shredded Parmesan cheese, and a touch of cream. Toss the cooked spaghetti squash with the sauce and top with bacon or pancetta for a decadent meatless meal.
3. Roasted Eggplant and Red Pepper Pasta
This pasta dish is full of flavor and loaded with veggies. Start by roasting eggplant and red peppers in the oven until tender. Toss the roasted veggies with pasta, olive oil, lemon juice, and add garlic for a simple yet satisfying meal. Top with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
4. Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Stuffed shells are a classic pasta dish, and this vegetarian version is just as delicious. Fill jumbo pasta shells with a mixture of ricotta cheese, spinach, and herbs. Top with homemade tomato sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese, then bake until bubbly and golden. Serve with garlic bread for a complete meal.
5. Carrot Noodle Pad Thai
This vegetarian take on classic Pad Thai is made with spiralized carrots instead of rice noodles. Sauté garlic, ginger, and green onions in a large pan, then add the carrot noodles, garbanzo beans, and a flavorful sauce made with peanut butter, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Serve with fresh cilantro and peanuts for a delicious and healthy meal.
6. Butternut Squash Lasagna
This vegetarian lasagna is made with layers of roasted butternut squash, creamy ricotta cheese, and a flavorful tomato sauce. Use whole wheat lasagna noodles for added nutrients and top with freshly grated parmesan cheese for added flavor. This is definitely a keeper recipe for your next Meatless Monday.
7. Broccoli Pesto Pasta
This pasta dish is loaded with green goodness and is a great way to incorporate more broccoli into your diet. Make a quick and easy pesto sauce by blending broccoli florets, pine nuts, garlic, and olive oil in a food processor. Toss the sauce with cooked pasta and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a simple and delicious meal.
8. Cauliflower Alfredo
This creamy and indulgent pasta dish is made with a sauce made from roasted cauliflower, garlic, and cream cheese. Toss the sauce with cooked pasta and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a meatless meal that’s full of flavor. Use whole wheat pasta for added nutrients.
9. Portabello Mushroom Fettuccine
This vegetarian pasta dish is made with fettine noodles and a flavorful sauce made from sautéed portabello mushrooms and caramelized onions. The sauce is thickened with a touch of tomato paste and seasoned with dried herbs for a zesty flavor. Serve with a sprinkle of grated parmigiano reggiano cheese and a lemon zest for added freshness.
10. One Pot Pasta Primavera
This one pot pasta dish is a quick and easy option for busy Meatless Mondays. Simply sauté garlic, red onions, and your choice of veggies, such as bell peppers, green beans, and grape tomatoes, in a large pot. Add in pasta and vegetable broth, then let everything cook together until the pasta is al dente. The end result is a simple dish with fresh flavors and a variety of veggies in every bite.
Conclusion: Healthy and Creative Vegetable Pasta Dishes
Vegetarian pasta recipes are an easy and delicious way to get more vegetables into your diet. From roasted broccoli pesto pasta to one-pot primavera, there are so many ways to create a tasty meal without relying on meat. Try some of these recipes for your next Meatless Monday or just any day of the week! With creative ingredients, flavorful sauces, and a variety of vegetables, you can turn any pasta dish into a healthy vegetarian meal.
Happy cooking!
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