Sometimes we all crave a comforting bowl of pasta, but we also want to make sure that our meals are nutritious and wholesome. This recipe for Healthy Living Pasta strikes the perfect balance by incorporating fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors without sacrificing on taste. Packed with colorful vegetables and a light, flavorful sauce, this dish is not only delicious but also nourishing for your body. Let’s dive into creating this mouthwatering and guilt-free pasta dish!
**Healthy Living Pasta**
**Ingredients:**
– 8 oz whole wheat pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
– 1 zucchini, halved and sliced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Pasta:** Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
2. **Prepare the Vegetables:** In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the red onion and cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
3. **Sauté the Peppers and Zucchini:** Add the sliced red and yellow bell peppers along with the zucchini to the skillet. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
4. **Combine the Ingredients:** Stir in the cherry tomatoes and season the vegetables with dried oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. **Bring It All Together:** Add the cooked whole wheat pasta to the skillet with the vegetables. Toss everything together gently, ensuring that the pasta is well-coated with the vegetable mixture.
6. **Serve and Garnish:** Transfer the Healthy Living Pasta to serving bowls. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
**Enjoy your delicious and nutritious Healthy Living Pasta!** This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. The vibrant colors and flavors of the vegetables combined with the whole wheat pasta make it a satisfying and healthy option that everyone will love. Experiment with different vegetables or herbs to customize the dish to your liking. Bon appétit!
