Farfalle with tomato sauce

Delicious Farfalle with Tomato Sauce and Vegetables Recipe

Culinary Journey: Pasta has a rich and varied history, being a staple ingredient in many culinary cultures around the world. Today's recipe, Farfalle with Tomato Sauce and Vegetables, is a perfect choice for a quick dinner, as well as to impress guests. This dish combines the al dente texture of the pasta with the vibrant flavors of fresh vegetables and tomato sauce, creating a meal that is not only tasty but also healthy.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 350-400 g farfalle (or pasta of your choice)
- 1 large onion
- 1 leek (only the white part)
- 1 carrot
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 can of peeled tomatoes (approximately 300 g)
- 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Grated Parmesan (optional, for serving)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the Pasta: Start by placing a large pot on the heat, adding water, salt, and a little oil. Wait until the water reaches a boiling point. Once the water is boiling, add the farfalle and let them cook for about 10 minutes or according to the package instructions, until they become al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

2. Preparing the Vegetables: Meanwhile, prepare the vegetables. Cut the onion into thin strips (julienne), the leek into thin rounds, and grate the carrot. You can dice the red bell pepper into small cubes. These measures will ensure even cooking and a pleasant texture of the vegetables.

3. Sautéing the Vegetables: In a deep skillet, add the 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add all the previously prepared vegetables and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until they become slightly soft and the flavors begin to reveal themselves.

4. Boiling the Sauce: Add 300 ml of water to the skillet with the vegetables and cover with a lid. Allow the vegetables to boil for 10-15 minutes, checking occasionally if more water is needed. The goal is to achieve a smooth texture of the vegetables and a concentrated sauce.

5. Preparing the Tomato Sauce: While the vegetables are boiling, puree the peeled tomatoes in a bowl, then add the sauce obtained to the skillet over the vegetables. Let it boil for another 5-7 minutes so that the flavors blend perfectly.

6. Thickening the Sauce: Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water, then add a little of the tomato sauce to dilute it. Pour the cornstarch mixture into the skillet, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Let the sauce boil for another 5 minutes, or until it thickens.

7. Finalizing the Dish: Once the sauce is ready, season with salt and pepper to taste. Add the chopped parsley for an extra touch of freshness. Drain the cooked pasta and rinse it under cold running water to stop the cooking process.

8. Assembling: Add the pasta to the skillet with the sauce and mix well so that each piece of pasta is evenly coated with the delicious sauce. This step is essential to ensure an even distribution of flavors.

9. Serving: Serve the farfalle with tomato sauce and vegetables warm, sprinkled with grated Parmesan, if desired. This detail adds a touch of flavor and a creamy texture to the dish. A glass of dry white wine or fresh lemonade will perfectly complement this meal.

Practical Tips:
- You can add proteins such as grilled chicken or tofu for a heartier meal.
- Experiment with other vegetables like zucchini or eggplant, depending on the season.
- If you prefer a spicier sauce, add chili flakes during the sautéing of the vegetables.
- Make sure the pasta is not overcooked; it will continue to cook a little in the sauce.
- Use fresh tomatoes if you have them available for an even more intense flavor.

Nutritional Information:
This recipe for farfalle with tomato sauce and vegetables is not only tasty but also nutritious. Pasta is an excellent source of carbohydrates, providing the energy needed for an active day. The vegetables bring an important contribution of vitamins and minerals, and tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. Each serving of this dish contains approximately 450-500 calories, depending on the amount of Parmesan added.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can replace farfalle with any other type of pasta you prefer, such as fusilli or penne.

2. How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian, but you can make the dish vegan by omitting the cheese or using a plant-based alternative.

3. Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Yes, the tomato sauce with vegetables can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat it and add the pasta just before serving.

4. What other sides go well with this dish?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or crispy bruschetta.

Now it's time to start cooking! This recipe for farfalle with tomato sauce and vegetables is easy to prepare and full of flavor. Whether you serve it at a family dinner or a party with friends, it will surely impress everyone. Enjoy your meal!