Vegetables with baked pasta

Delicious Vegetable Pasta Bake Recipe

Are you looking for an easy, healthy, and flavorful recipe that is perfect for fasting days? I suggest a delicious combination of vegetables and pasta baked in the oven, a dish that is easy to make and extremely tasty. This recipe blends the natural flavors of vegetables with the perfect texture of pasta, providing you with a dish that not only delights your taste buds but is also packed with nutrients.

Total preparation time: 60 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Recipe History

Baked vegetable and pasta dishes have a long history and are a popular choice in many cultures. This cooking method allows the ingredients to combine and develop rich flavors, creating a comforting and hearty dish. It is an ideal recipe for using seasonal vegetables and experimenting with various combinations based on personal preferences.

Necessary Ingredients

- 200 g pasta (I recommend penne rigate for perfect texture)
- 200 g medium champignon mushrooms (whole)
- 1/2 carrot (sliced)
- 1/2 zucchini (cubed)
- 3 small turnips (peeled and cubed)
- 2-3 cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1 tablespoon tomato puree
- 2 bay leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme (fresh or dried)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil (or other vegetable oil)

Ingredient Details

- Pasta: Choose whole grain pasta for added fiber or gluten-free pasta if you have intolerances. Cooking times vary by type, so be sure to check the instructions on the package.
- Vegetables: You can use any vegetables you prefer – bell peppers, broccoli, or eggplant are excellent options. They not only add flavor but also essential vitamins.
- Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds a distinct flavor, but you can also opt for other types of oil based on your preferences.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Vegetables
- Start by thoroughly washing all the vegetables. Peel the carrot and turnips, and you can leave the zucchini and mushrooms whole to maintain their texture. Cut the carrot and zucchini into cubes, and the turnips into smaller pieces.

2. Arranging the Vegetables in the Dish
- Take a heat-resistant dish and add the prepared vegetables. Ensure they are evenly distributed for even cooking.

3. Preparing the Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix the tomato puree with water (about 200 ml), salt, pepper, and 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil. Pour this mixture over the vegetables in the dish, ensuring they are well covered.

4. Adding the Spices
- Add the bay leaves and thyme, gently stirring to distribute the flavors evenly. These will infuse the dish with delicious aromas.

5. Baking the Vegetables
- Cover the dish with a lid or aluminum foil and place it on the bottom rack of the preheated oven at 210 degrees Celsius. Bake for 30 minutes, during which the vegetables will become tender and flavorful.

6. Adding the Pasta
- After 30 minutes, remove the dish from the oven and add the pasta. Mix them well among the vegetables so they absorb the delicious sauce.

7. Cooking the Pasta
- Cover the dish again and return it to the oven for another 15 minutes. Check the pasta to ensure it is cooked al dente. If necessary, you can leave the dish in for a few extra minutes.

8. Serving
- Once the pasta is ready, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly. You can serve the dish with a drizzle of olive oil on top and, if desired, with grated Parmesan (for those not fasting). It is a dish that can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

Useful Tips

- You can experiment with different types of pasta or vegetables based on the season or personal preferences. Additionally, adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley can enhance the flavor of the dish.
- If you want to add extra protein, you can include tofu or cooked chickpeas, which will integrate perfectly into the dish.
- This recipe is very versatile and can be adapted based on the ingredients you have on hand.

Delicious Combinations

To complete this dish, I recommend serving it alongside a fresh arugula or spinach salad, drizzled with a simple vinaigrette. A refreshing drink, such as fruit tea or fresh lemon juice, will make the meal even more enjoyable.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

This vegetable pasta dish is not only delicious but also healthy. One serving contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the ingredients used. It is rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants from the vegetables and provides a source of carbohydrates from the pasta, essential for energy.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use gluten-free pasta?
- Yes, you can opt for rice or quinoa pasta based on your preferences.

2. What is the best type of vegetables for this recipe?
- You can use any vegetables you prefer, but I would recommend choosing vegetables that bake well, such as carrots, zucchini, and mushrooms.

3. Can I make this recipe in advance?
- Absolutely! You can prepare the vegetables a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, all you need to do is add the pasta and bake.

In conclusion, baked vegetables with pasta are a delicious and flexible choice, perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to experiment with ingredients and customize your recipe to satisfy your tastes. Bon appétit!