There’s nothing quite like the convenience of having a delicious homemade meal ready to go in the freezer, especially on those busy days when you need a quick solution. That’s why we’re sharing a fantastic recipe today that not only tastes amazing but also freezes beautifully: Pasta Freeze Well. This flavorful pasta dish is perfect for meal prepping or batch cooking, ensuring that you always have a satisfying meal on hand. Whether you’re stocking up your freezer for busy weeknights or looking to have a comforting meal at the ready, this recipe is a game-changer. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to whip up this freezer-friendly delight!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pasta of your choice (such as penne, rigatoni, or fusilli)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
– 1 zucchini, diced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, and sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the diced bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5-6 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
4. Season the vegetables with dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine the flavors.
5. Pour in the marinara sauce and stir until the vegetables are coated evenly. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes to meld the flavors together.
6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss well to combine with the sauce and vegetables.
7. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and stir until the cheese is melted and the pasta is fully coated.
8. Allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Make sure to label and date the containers for easy reference.
9. To reheat, simply thaw the frozen pasta in the refrigerator overnight. Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water until warmed through.
10. Serve the Pasta Freeze Well hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for that final touch of flavor.
This Pasta Freeze Well recipe is a lifesaver for those hectic days when cooking from scratch is not an option. It’s a versatile dish that you can easily customize with your favorite veggies or additional protein like grilled chicken or shrimp. Make a big batch on the weekend and enjoy the convenience of having a hearty meal waiting for you in the freezer. Say goodbye to last-minute takeout and hello to delicious homemade pasta whenever you need it. Happy cooking and freezing!
