Name: Vegetable Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 3 cups broccoli (finely chopped); 4 cups penne pasta (uncooked); Salt and pepper (to taste); 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided); 1/2 cup shallots (thinly sliced or thinly sliced green onions); 2 teaspoons minced garlic; 1 14.75-ounce can cream style sweet corn; 1 cup frozen corn; 3/4 cup grated carrot ((see note 1)); 1 large red pepper (thinly sliced); 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese ((see note 2)); 1/2 cup fresh basil ((see note 3)); Red pepper flakes (for heat, optional)

If you’re in search of a delightful way to incorporate more vegetables into your meals, this Vegetable Pasta Recipe is your answer. Bursting with colors, textures, and flavors, this dish not only looks beautiful but is also packed with nutrients. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this pasta is sure to impress. The combination of fresh vegetables and creamy sweetness makes it a family favorite that can be made in under 30 minutes.

Why It Deserves a Spot

This Vegetable Pasta Recipe deserves a spot on your dinner table for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly versatile. You can easily swap out vegetables based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. Second, it provides a wonderful balance of flavors and textures, from the crunch of the broccoli to the sweetness of the corn and the creaminess of the butter and cheese. Lastly, it’s a one-pan dish that simplifies cleanup, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

What You’ll Gather

To make this Vegetable Pasta Recipe, you’ll need to gather the following ingredients:

3 cups broccoli, finely chopped
4 cups penne pasta, uncooked
Salt and pepper to taste
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
1/2 cup thinly sliced shallots or thinly sliced green onions
2 teaspoons minced garlic
1 (14.75-ounce) can cream style sweet corn
1 cup frozen corn
3/4 cup grated carrot (see note 1)
1 large red pepper, thinly sliced
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (see note 2)
1/2 cup fresh basil (see note 3)
Red pepper flakes for heat, optional

Gear Checklist

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following gear at hand:

Large pot for boiling the pasta
Colander for draining the pasta
Large skillet for sautéing the vegetables
Wooden spoon for mixing
Measuring cups and spoons for precise measurements

How to Prepare Vegetable Pasta Recipe

Follow these simple steps to create your Vegetable Pasta Recipe:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the uncooked penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced shallots (or green onions) and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they become translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables

Next, add the finely chopped broccoli, grated carrot, and thinly sliced red pepper to the skillet. Sauté the mixture for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender yet still crisp.

Step 4: Incorporate the Corn

Stir in the cream style sweet corn and the frozen corn, continuing to cook for another 3-4 minutes until everything is heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet and pour in the remaining 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil, mixing until evenly distributed.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the Vegetable Pasta to serving plates or a large bowl. If desired, sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. Enjoy your delicious and colorful dish!

Substitutions by Diet

If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, here are some substitutions you can make:

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free penne pasta.
Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with olive oil and use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Vegan: Follow the dairy-free substitutions and omit Parmesan cheese.
Low-Carb: Swap pasta with spiralized zucchini or cauliflower rice.

Things That Go Wrong

Here are some common pitfalls to avoid when making your Vegetable Pasta Recipe:

Overcooking the pasta can lead to a mushy texture. Always aim for al dente.
Not salting the water when boiling pasta can cause it to taste bland.
Using frozen vegetables that are not thawed properly can result in excess water in your dish.
Forgetting to add the cheese at the end could leave your pasta lacking that creamy finish.

How to Store & Reheat

To store your Vegetable Pasta Recipe, follow these tips:

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out.
Do not freeze, as the texture of the vegetables may suffer upon thawing.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables like zucchini, asparagus, or spinach. Just make sure to adjust cooking times based on their tenderness.

How can I make this dish spicier?

You can add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce to elevate the heat level to your liking.

Can I make this Vegetable Pasta Recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pasta and sauté the vegetables ahead of time. Simply combine them when you’re ready to serve, and enjoy!

What can I serve with this dish?

This pasta pairs well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Next Steps

Now that you have the recipe for this delectable Vegetable Pasta, it’s time to get cooking! Gather your ingredients and gear, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a colorful and nutritious meal. Don’t forget to share your creations on social media and tag your favorite food bloggers for inspiration. Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite of your delicious Vegetable Pasta Recipe!