Quick 15-Minute Veggie Pasta

This quick 15-minute veggie pasta is perfect for a busy day when you crave something healthy and delicious. Packed with colorful vegetables and tossed in a simple yet flavorful sauce, it’s a great way to enjoy a wholesome meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz (225g) pasta (spaghetti, penne, or your choice)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), thinly sliced
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
• Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)

Instructions:

Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Sauté the Vegetables:
While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onion, bell pepper, and zucchini. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant in color.

Add Garlic and Tomatoes:
Add the minced garlic and halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet, cooking for another 2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and the tomatoes start to soften. Add the frozen peas and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.

Season the Vegetables:
Sprinkle the vegetables with oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the flavors meld together.

Combine Pasta and Vegetables:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the vegetables. Toss everything together, adding a bit of reserved pasta water to help coat the pasta and vegetables with the sauce. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Serve:
Serve the veggie pasta in bowls, topped with grated Parmesan cheese (if using) and fresh basil leaves. For a zesty touch, add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.

Tips:

• Add Protein: For extra protein, you can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to this dish.
• Customize Vegetables: Feel free to swap or add other vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or eggplant based on your preferences or what you have in your kitchen.
• Make it Vegan: Simply skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.