Oven-baked pasta with vegetables

Baked Vegetable Pasta – a Delicious and Healthy Recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

I propose a recipe for baked vegetable pasta, a perfect choice for a tasty and healthy dinner. This recipe combines the rich flavors of vegetables with the perfect texture of pasta, and it is an excellent way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. Additionally, it is a versatile recipe that you can adapt to your preferences!

A Brief History of the Recipe

Pasta is a staple food in many cultures, and the combination with vegetables has become popular due to the nutritional benefits it offers. This simple and quick recipe reflects the ethos of home cooking, where fresh ingredients are combined to create a healthy and flavorful meal.

Necessary Ingredients

- 150 g pasta (preferably penne or fusilli to hold the sauce)
- 1 small zucchini
- 4 fresh mushrooms
- 1 carrot
- 1 medium onion
- 1 large tomato
- 250 g peeled tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 3-4 tablespoons homemade tomato paste
- 1 clove of garlic
- 3 tablespoons sunflower oil
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 slice of pepper tofu (optional, for extra protein)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the Vegetables
Start by peeling the zucchini and cutting it into larger pieces, about 2 cm. This will keep them juicy during baking. Wash and slice the mushrooms, peel the carrot, and cut it into julienne strips for better integration into the sauce. Peel and finely chop the onion, and peel and cut the tomato into large pieces.

2. Cooking the Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat the sunflower oil over medium heat. Add the onion and carrot and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they become slightly translucent. Add the mushrooms, zucchini, and tomato, then pour in ½ cup of water. Let the vegetables cook for about 5-7 minutes until they soften.

3. Preparing the Sauce
Place the peeled tomatoes in a blender and puree until smooth. Once the vegetables have softened, add the tomato puree, homemade tomato paste, and dried basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and if necessary, add a little more water to achieve the desired consistency. Let the sauce simmer for 6-7 minutes, then add the peeled and sliced garlic. Remove the skillet from heat and let the sauce cool slightly.

4. Boiling the Pasta
In a separate pot, bring water to a boil with a teaspoon of salt. When the water is boiling, add the pasta and let it cook for 10-12 minutes or until al dente. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

5. Assembling the Dish
Once the pasta is ready, drain it well and grease a baking dish with a little olive oil. Place the pasta in the dish, leveling it evenly. Pour the vegetable sauce over the pasta and gently mix to ensure the sauce covers all the pasta. Cut the tofu into small cubes and sprinkle it evenly on top. Drizzle with a little olive oil.

6. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until everything is well cooked and the vegetables are slightly browned.

7. Serving
Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for an extra touch of freshness. You can serve the dish warm, alongside a green salad or a yogurt sauce for a delicious contrast.

Useful Tips

- Suitable Ingredients: You can replace tofu with feta cheese for a richer flavor option, or with soy cheese for a vegan choice.
- Vegetable Variations: Add bell peppers, spinach, or even peas for a different taste and texture.
- Alternative Sauces: Instead of tomato sauce, you can use a white sauce based on cream or a pesto sauce for a distinct flavor.
- Storage: This dish keeps well in the fridge and can be reheated the next day, but it is best when fresh.

Nutritional Benefits

This baked vegetable pasta recipe is packed with vitamins and minerals from the fresh vegetables. Zucchini, mushrooms, and carrots are excellent sources of fiber, aiding digestion. Tofu adds a good dose of protein, making this dish a suitable nutritious choice for vegans and vegetarians.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use whole grain pasta?
Absolutely! Whole grain pasta is a healthy option and adds a richer taste.

2. How do I know when the pasta is al dente?
Follow the instructions on the package, but generally, pasta is al dente when it is firm to the bite but not hard.

3. Can I add meat to this recipe?
Sure! You can add chicken or ground meat, cooking them beforehand before mixing with the vegetables.

4. What drinks pair well with this dish?
A dry white wine or fresh lemonade are excellent choices that complement the flavors of this dish.

Enjoy your meal! This baked vegetable pasta dish is not only a nourishing meal but also a true delight for the taste buds!