Oven-baked pasta with vegetables

Baked Pasta with Vegetables – A Delicious Recipe for Unforgettable Moments

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 80 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Welcome to the world of flavors and colors! Today, I will present a baked pasta recipe with vegetables that will transform any meal into a true culinary celebration. This recipe is not only packed with nutrients but is also extremely versatile, allowing for adaptations based on individual preferences. With a mix of pasta, fresh vegetables, and a creamy sauce, every bite will bring a smile to your face.

A bit of history

Baked pasta is a tradition in many cultures, often prepared on holidays or during family gatherings. This vegetable pasta recipe is a healthy and tasty variation that combines creamy textures with the intense flavors of vegetables, providing a nutritionally balanced meal.

Necessary ingredients

- 400 g pasta
- 80 ml oil (olive or sunflower)
- 100 g frozen peas
- 2 carrots
- 400 g mushrooms (fresh or canned)
- 1 onion
- 5 cloves of garlic
- 200 g diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 1/2 bell pepper
- 100 g cheese (or feta)
- 1 liter boiled milk
- Thyme and oregano, to taste
- 125 g butter
- 6 tablespoons flour
- A few pitted olives
- Fresh dill
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-step preparation

1. Preparing the vegetables
Start by peeling the carrots, onion, and garlic. Cut the carrots into thin strips, and finely chop the onion and garlic. These vegetables will provide a tasty base for our recipe.

2. Boiling the pasta
In a large pot, add salted water and a tablespoon of oil. Bring the water to a boil, then add the pasta. Let it boil for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain well.

3. Sautéing the vegetables
In a pan, add a little oil and sauté the carrots for 5 minutes. Separately, sauté the onion in the same pan until it becomes translucent. Then, combine the carrots with the onion, add the mushrooms and chopped garlic, and season with thyme and oregano to taste. Add 100 ml of water and cover the pan, allowing the vegetables to cook until tender.

4. Adding the tomatoes
Once the vegetables are cooked, add the diced tomatoes and let it simmer for a few minutes to reduce the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Preparing the creamy sauce
In a saucepan, melt the butter and add the flour, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Gradually add the milk, stirring until the sauce becomes smooth. When the sauce is ready, add the grated cheese and chopped dill, mixing well.

6. Assembling the dish
In a greased baking dish lined with breadcrumbs, add a layer of sauce with dill, followed by half of the pasta. Next, add a layer of vegetable sauce, sprinkle the peas, then another layer of sauce with dill. Add the remaining pasta and cover with the remaining sauce. Top with olives and fresh parsley leaves.

7. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 60 minutes, until the top is golden and crispy.

8. Serving
This delicacy can be served hot or at room temperature. It pairs perfectly with a side of ketchup or sour cream, depending on individual preferences. Plate it up and enjoy every bite!

Useful tips

- Varied ingredients: If you don’t have certain vegetables on hand, feel free to replace them with your favorites or seasonal options. Broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers can be excellent additions.
- Added proteins: For a heartier version, add pieces of cooked chicken or tofu.
- For an intense flavor: Add a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to the vegetable sauce for an extra umami kick.
- Cheese variations: Try replacing the cheese with goat cheese or mozzarella for a different texture.

Nutritional benefits

This baked vegetable pasta recipe is packed with nutrients, thanks to the fresh vegetables and milk, which provide calcium and protein. Carrots are an excellent source of beta-carotene, while mushrooms bring fiber and antioxidants. By using whole grain pasta, you will also add even more fiber and vitamins.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use whole grain pasta?
Absolutely! Whole grain pasta is an excellent choice as it is richer in fiber and contributes to a healthy diet.

2. How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Make sure to use fresh vegetables, and instead of cheese, try a mix of chopped nuts or tofu to achieve a similar texture.

3. Can it be frozen?
Yes, this dish can be frozen. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it in airtight containers.

4. What other recipes can it be paired with?
Baked vegetable pasta pairs perfectly with a fresh vegetable salad or a serving of basmati rice.

So, dear friends, I invite you to try this delicious baked pasta with vegetables recipe. It’s a perfect option for family meals or even for a romantic dinner. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the ingredients and add a personal touch. Enjoy your meal!