If you’re craving a dish that feels like a comforting hug in a bowl, the Pasta with Tomato Sauce and Vegetables Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a bright, flavorful meal that effortlessly balances the richness of a hearty tomato sauce with the fresh crunch of garden vegetables, making each bite a celebration of wholesome, vibrant ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this recipe transforms simple pantry staples and fresh produce into a satisfying and colorful plate that everyone will rave about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every great dish starts with the right ingredients, and this Pasta with Tomato Sauce and Vegetables Recipe is no exception. The ingredients here are simple but essential, each playing a key role in building a beautiful balance of taste, texture, and color that makes this dish so irresistible.
- 8 oz pasta: Choose your favorite type—spaghetti, penne, or fusilli—all work perfectly to soak up that luscious sauce.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Adds a silky richness and helps sauté the vegetables to perfection without overpowering their freshness.
- 1 onion, diced: Caramelizes gently to create a sweet aromatic foundation.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with that classic punch of flavor you can’t resist.
- 1 bell pepper, chopped: Brings a mild sweetness and delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with the other vegetables.
- 1 zucchini, sliced: Adds a tender, juicy texture and balances the acidity from the tomatoes.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Offer bursts of freshness and vibrant color that brighten the whole dish.
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes: The heart of the sauce, providing rich depth and a velvety texture.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: Introduces an earthy herbaceous note that ties all the flavors together.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing and balancing every ingredient’s natural flavors.
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving: The finishing touch that adds a salty, nutty layer making every bite even more delightful.
How to Make Pasta with Tomato Sauce and Vegetables Recipe
Step 1: Cook the pasta
Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. This step is key because you want the pasta to have a slight firmness to hold up beautifully once combined with the sauce and vegetables. Drain it well and set aside while you prepare the sauce, giving you a smooth flow during cooking.
Step 2: Sauté the onion
Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and cook gently, allowing it to turn translucent and soften without browning—this will add a sweet and savory base that enriches the sauce.
Step 3: Add garlic and vegetables
Next, stir in the minced garlic, chopped bell pepper, and sliced zucchini. Cook everything together for 5 to 7 minutes, letting the vegetables soften up a bit while infusing the oil with aromatic layers. This step builds texture and adds those wonderful fresh flavors that make the dish feel lively.
Step 4: Stir in tomatoes and oregano
Now, add the halved cherry tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, and dried oregano. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 5 to 10 minutes so that the flavors blend and thicken slightly. Remember to season with salt and pepper to your taste, making sure every ingredient’s flavor pops.
Step 5: Combine pasta and sauce
Toss the cooked pasta directly into the pan with the tomato sauce and vegetables. Mix everything well so the noodles soak up that rich, flavorful sauce. Heat it through for a minute or two to marry the flavors, and prepare for the grand finish.
Step 6: Serve with Parmesan cheese
Dish out your Pasta with Tomato Sauce and Vegetables, then generously top with grated Parmesan cheese. It melts slightly over the warm pasta and adds that irresistible savory edge to each bite.
How to Serve Pasta with Tomato Sauce and Vegetables Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this dish, consider topping it with fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat. A drizzle of good quality extra virgin olive oil at the end also adds a luscious finish and deepens the flavor complexity.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to refresh the palate, or some crusty garlic bread to scoop up every last bit of sauce. Roasted vegetables or grilled chicken make excellent additions if you want to boost the meal’s heartiness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a friendly dinner, serve the pasta family-style in a large rustic bowl so everyone can dig in and share. Alternatively, plate it elegantly on warm dishes with neat piles of grated cheese and finely chopped herbs to impress guests with your culinary flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Pasta with Tomato Sauce and Vegetables can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making for an even tastier meal the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, but it’s best to do so before mixing the pasta with the sauce. Store the sauce separately in a freezer-safe container for up to three months, then reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta for optimal texture.
Reheating
When reheating leftovers, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or olive oil if the sauce has thickened too much. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and to keep the pasta tender and flavorful.
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?
Absolutely! This Pasta with Tomato Sauce and Vegetables Recipe is versatile. Feel free to add mushrooms, spinach, eggplant, or carrots based on your preference or what’s in season. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
What type of pasta works best?
Most pasta shapes work well here, but short pastas like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni are especially great as they hold the chunky vegetable sauce nicely. Spaghetti is also a classic choice for a smooth, twirl-worthy experience.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes! Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative to make this Pasta with Tomato Sauce and Vegetables Recipe completely vegan-friendly while still delicious.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time for guests?
Yes, you can prep the sauce a day in advance and reheat it when ready. Cook the pasta just before serving to keep its texture perfect. This approach helps reduce last-minute cooking stress.
How can I add protein to this meal?
Adding cooked chicken, sautéed shrimp, or some crispy tofu cubes can turn this dish into a more substantial main course. You can mix them in with the pasta and sauce or serve on the side, depending on your preference.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a homemade Pasta with Tomato Sauce and Vegetables Recipe that combines simplicity and fresh flavors in one bowl. It’s the kind of meal that feels cozy and wholesome, perfect for both weeknight dinners and casual gatherings. I hope you’ll enjoy making and sharing this recipe as much as I do—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser with heart and soul in every bite.
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 quick and flavorful pasta dish featuring a rich tomato sauce simmered with fresh vegetables. Ideal for a wholesome weeknight meal, this recipe balances tender pasta with a vibrant mix of bell pepper, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes, finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients
Primary Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 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
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside to keep warm.
- Sauté Onion: Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes or until translucent, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in minced garlic, chopped bell pepper, and sliced zucchini into the pan. Cook for an additional 5 to 7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften and release their flavors.
- Simmer Tomato Sauce: Add the halved cherry tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, and dried oregano to the pan. Reduce heat to low and simmer gently for 5 to 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the flavors to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta directly into the pan with the sauce and vegetables. Toss everything together to coat the pasta evenly and heat through for 1 to 2 minutes.
- Serve: Spoon the pasta onto serving plates and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese while still hot for added flavor and richness.
Notes
- You can use any type of pasta, such as penne, spaghetti, or fusilli.
- For a vegan version, omit the Parmesan or use a plant-based cheese alternative.
- Feel free to add fresh basil or parsley for extra aroma and freshness.
- To enhance the sauce, a splash of red wine can be added during the simmering step.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
