Fusilli with vegetables and chili

Fusilli with vegetables and chili: a quick and delicious recipe for a healthy meal

If you're looking for a simple, healthy, and colorful meal, fusilli with vegetables and chili is the perfect choice! This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also ideal for those who want to follow a fasting diet or simply enjoy a light and tasty meal. Moreover, the crunchy vegetables, spicy flavors, and pasta texture will turn every bite into an unforgettable experience.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 2

Ingredients:
- 300 g fusilli
- 1/2 zucchini
- 1/2 red bell pepper
- 1/2 green bell pepper
- salt, to taste
- pepper, to taste
- oil for sautéing (preferably olive oil)
- 300 ml broth (fresh or canned)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon chili paste (adjust to taste)
- fresh basil leaves for garnish

Brief history:
Fusilli, a popular type of Italian pasta, has a spiral shape that helps capture sauces and flavors. This recipe is a perfect blend of pasta tradition and fresh vegetables, offering a colorful and nutritious meal. The use of chili paste adds a spicy note that is not only delicious but also invigorating!

Step by step:

1. Cooking the pasta: Start by bringing a liter of water to a boil in a large pot. Add a teaspoon of salt to enhance the pasta's flavor. When the water is boiling, add the fusilli and cook according to the package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

2. Preparing the vegetables: In the meantime, prepare the vegetables. Peel the zucchini and slice it thinly. This will help cook the vegetables evenly. Dice the red and green bell peppers into small cubes.

3. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large skillet, add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the sliced zucchini and diced peppers. Sauté the vegetables for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. It’s important not to leave them on the heat for too long, so they remain slightly crunchy.

4. Adding the spices: Once the vegetables have started to soften, add the chili paste and mix well. This step will add an intense flavor to the dish. After a few moments, pour in the broth and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to combine the flavors.

5. Finishing the dish: Taste the sauce and adjust with salt, pepper, and sugar to balance the acidity of the broth. When the pasta is ready, drain it well and add it to the skillet with the vegetable sauce. Mix everything well and let it heat together for 2-3 minutes.

6. Serving: Serve the fusilli with vegetables and chili hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves. This will not only add a vibrant look to your plate but also a fresh and aromatic scent.

Practical tips:
- If you prefer an even tastier dish, you can add some olives or capers for a salty flavor.
- Instead of broth, you can use vegetable soup for extra flavor.
- If you don't have chili paste, you can use freshly chopped chili or chili flakes, adjusting the amount based on how spicy you like it.
- This recipe is versatile! You can replace the vegetables according to the season or your preferences: carrots, pumpkin, or broccoli are excellent choices.

Nutritional benefits:
This meal is packed with vitamins and minerals from the vegetables, and whole grain pasta (if you choose this option) provides complex carbohydrates that will give you energy throughout the day. Olive oil is a good source of healthy fats, and basil adds a boost of antioxidants.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use gluten-free pasta?
- Absolutely! There are many gluten-free pasta options available, such as those made from rice or quinoa.

2. What can I substitute to make the recipe vegan?
- The recipe is already vegan, and all the ingredients are suitable for a plant-based diet.

3. Can I prepare the recipe in advance?
- Sure! You can cook the pasta and vegetables in advance, and when serving, just reheat them gently.

This fusilli with vegetables and chili recipe is not only simple but also a burst of flavors, perfect for a quick dinner during the week or to impress friends at a festive meal. So, put on some pleasant music and let yourself be carried away by the aromas and colors of this delicious dish! Enjoy your meal!