Pasta is a staple food in many households, but it can be challenging to decide what vegetables to pair it with. After all, you don’t want to ruin the dish’s flavor profile with the wrong choice of vegetables. Luckily, there are plenty of vegetables that go well with pasta, and in this article, we will explore some of the best options.
Whether you prefer your pasta with a tomato-based sauce or a creamy Alfredo sauce, there are plenty of vegetable options to choose from. From classic choices like mushrooms and bell peppers to more adventurous options like artichokes and asparagus, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive in and explore what vegetables go best with pasta!
There are many vegetables that pair well with pasta. Some popular options include tomatoes, spinach, broccoli, zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms. You can sauté or roast these vegetables with garlic and olive oil for added flavor. You can also add them to the pasta sauce or toss them with the pasta for a healthy and delicious meal.
What Vegetables Go with Pasta?
Pasta is a popular dish that can be easily customized with different ingredients. Apart from meats and seafood, vegetables can also be added to pasta to make it more nutritious and flavorful. In this article, we will discuss the different types of vegetables that go well with pasta.
1. Tomatoes
Tomatoes are a popular addition to pasta dishes. They are versatile and can be used in various forms such as fresh, canned, or sun-dried. Tomatoes add a sweet and tangy flavor to pasta and are a good source of vitamins A and C. You can use cherry tomatoes, diced tomatoes, or tomato sauce to add a burst of flavor to your pasta dish.
To make a simple tomato sauce, sauté chopped onions and garlic in olive oil. Add canned tomatoes and cook for a few minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs such as basil or oregano. Toss the sauce with your favorite pasta and enjoy.
2. Broccoli
Broccoli is a nutritious vegetable that goes well with pasta. It is rich in vitamins C and K, and fiber. Broccoli can be steamed and added to pasta or sautéed with garlic and olive oil. You can also roast broccoli in the oven and add it to your pasta dish.
To roast broccoli, toss the florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast in the oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes or until tender. Add the roasted broccoli to your pasta and toss with a little more olive oil and Parmesan cheese.
3. Spinach
Spinach is a leafy green vegetable that is packed with nutrients such as iron, calcium, and vitamins A and C. It has a mild flavor that pairs well with pasta. You can use fresh or frozen spinach to make a delicious pasta dish.
To make a simple spinach pasta, sauté garlic and red pepper flakes in olive oil. Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted. Toss with cooked pasta and season with salt and pepper. You can also add some grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
4. Mushrooms
Mushrooms are a flavorful addition to pasta dishes. They have a meaty texture and add depth to the dish. Mushrooms are also a good source of vitamins B and D. You can use different varieties of mushrooms such as button, cremini, or shiitake.
To make a mushroom pasta, sauté sliced mushrooms with garlic and thyme in olive oil. Add a splash of white wine and cook until the mushrooms are tender. Toss with cooked pasta and season with salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese.
5. Peppers
Peppers add a sweet and crunchy flavor to pasta dishes. They are a good source of vitamin C and can be used in various colors such as red, green, or yellow. You can use peppers in different forms such as roasted, sautéed, or raw.
To make a pepper pasta, sauté sliced peppers with garlic and onion in olive oil. Add a can of diced tomatoes and cook for a few minutes. Toss with cooked pasta and season with salt, pepper, and fresh basil.
6. Zucchini
Zucchini is a versatile vegetable that can be used in pasta dishes. It has a mild flavor and is rich in vitamins A and C. You can use zucchini in different forms such as sautéed, grilled, or roasted.
To make a zucchini pasta, sauté sliced zucchini with garlic and onion in olive oil. Add a can of diced tomatoes and cook for a few minutes. Toss with cooked pasta and season with salt, pepper, and fresh parsley.
7. Eggplant
Eggplant is a flavorful vegetable that goes well with pasta. It has a meaty texture and is rich in fiber and antioxidants. You can use eggplant in different forms such as roasted, grilled, or sautéed.
To make an eggplant pasta, slice the eggplant and sprinkle with salt. Let it sit for 30 minutes to remove excess moisture. Rinse the eggplant and pat dry. Roast in the oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes or until tender. Toss with cooked pasta and season with salt, pepper, and fresh basil.
8. Asparagus
Asparagus is a nutritious vegetable that goes well with pasta. It is rich in vitamins A and C, and fiber. Asparagus can be sautéed or roasted and added to pasta dishes.
To make an asparagus pasta, sauté sliced asparagus with garlic and lemon zest in olive oil. Add a splash of white wine and cook until the asparagus is tender. Toss with cooked pasta and season with salt, pepper, and fresh parsley.
9. Artichokes
Artichokes are a flavorful addition to pasta dishes. They have a tangy flavor and are rich in fiber and antioxidants. You can use canned or frozen artichokes to make a delicious pasta dish.
To make an artichoke pasta, sauté chopped onions and garlic in olive oil. Add canned or frozen artichokes and cook for a few minutes. Toss with cooked pasta and season with salt, pepper, and fresh basil.
10. Carrots
Carrots are a nutritious vegetable that goes well with pasta. They are rich in vitamins A and K, and fiber. Carrots can be grated or sliced and added to pasta dishes.
To make a carrot pasta, sauté grated carrots with garlic and ginger in olive oil. Add a splash of soy sauce and cook until the carrots are tender. Toss with cooked pasta and season with salt, pepper, and fresh cilantro.
In conclusion, there are many different types of vegetables that go well with pasta. Adding vegetables to your pasta dish is a great way to increase its nutritional value and make it more flavorful. Experiment with different combinations of vegetables and pasta to find your favorite dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
What vegetables go well with pasta?
Pasta is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of vegetables. Some of the most popular vegetables that go well with pasta include:
1. Tomatoes: Tomatoes are a classic pairing with pasta. You can use fresh cherry tomatoes, canned tomatoes, or tomato sauce to give your pasta a rich and savory flavor.
2. Spinach: Spinach is a nutritious and delicious vegetable that goes well with pasta. You can sauté fresh spinach with garlic and olive oil and serve it over your pasta, or mix it directly into the sauce.
3. Broccoli: Broccoli is another great vegetable that pairs well with pasta. You can steam or roast the broccoli and add it to your pasta dish for a healthy and flavorful meal.
How do you make a vegetable pasta sauce?
Making a vegetable pasta sauce is easy and delicious. Here’s a simple recipe:
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of chopped vegetables (such as onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can of crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon of dried basil
– 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped vegetables and garlic and sauté until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
3. Add the can of crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper, and stir to combine.
4. Reduce the heat and simmer the sauce for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Serve the sauce over your favorite pasta and enjoy!
Can you add carrots to pasta?
Yes, you can definitely add carrots to pasta. Carrots are a versatile vegetable that can add both flavor and nutrition to your pasta dishes. Here’s a simple recipe for a carrot pasta sauce:
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of chopped carrots
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can of crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon of dried basil
– 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped carrots, onion, and garlic, and sauté until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
3. Add the can of crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper, and stir to combine.
4. Reduce the heat and simmer the sauce for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Serve the sauce over your favorite pasta and enjoy!
What vegetables can I roast with pasta?
Roasted vegetables are a delicious addition to any pasta dish. Here are some of the best vegetables to roast with pasta:
1. Bell peppers: Roasted bell peppers add a sweet and smoky flavor to pasta dishes. Slice them into thin strips and roast them in the oven until they are soft and slightly charred.
2. Zucchini: Roasted zucchini is a great way to add a healthy and flavorful element to your pasta dishes. Cut the zucchini into bite-sized pieces and roast them until they are tender and golden brown.
3. Eggplant: Roasted eggplant adds a rich and meaty flavor to pasta dishes. Cut the eggplant into cubes and roast them until they are soft and caramelized.
What vegetables go well with pesto pasta?
Pesto pasta is a delicious and flavorful dish that pairs well with a variety of vegetables. Here are some of the best vegetables to add to your pesto pasta:
1. Cherry tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes add a burst of sweetness and acidity to pesto pasta. Slice them in half and mix them into your pasta dish for a colorful and tasty addition.
2. Roasted red peppers: Roasted red peppers add a smoky and savory flavor to pesto pasta. Slice them into thin strips and mix them into your pasta for a delicious and healthy meal.
3. Asparagus: Asparagus adds a fresh and crunchy texture to pesto pasta. Blanch the asparagus and mix it into your pasta dish for a nutritious and flavorful meal.
In conclusion, there are countless vegetables that can perfectly accompany a plate of pasta. Adding vegetables to your pasta dish is a great way to incorporate more nutrients into your meal and make it more well-rounded.
Some of the best vegetables to pair with pasta include broccoli, spinach, zucchini, and bell peppers. These vegetables not only add flavor to your pasta but also provide vitamins and minerals that are essential for a healthy diet.
Ultimately, the choice of vegetables to add to your pasta dish is entirely up to you. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try new combinations to find your perfect match. With a little creativity and some fresh vegetables, you can elevate your pasta dish to a whole new level of deliciousness and nutrition.
