Vegetable Pasta With Olive Oil And Garlic

The beauty of Italian cuisine lies in its simplicity and the way it celebrates fresh ingredients. One classic dish that embodies this essence is Vegetable Pasta with Olive Oil and Garlic. This recipe is a delightful medley of colorful vegetables, aromatic garlic, and the richness of olive oil, all coming together to create a satisfying and wholesome meal. Perfect for a cozy night at home or a gathering with friends, this dish is easy to make and bursting with flavors that will transport you straight to Italy.

Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium zucchini, sliced
– 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 cups baby spinach
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water before draining and set the cooked pasta aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the sliced zucchini and red bell pepper to the skillet. Stir and cook for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
4. Toss in the cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until they begin to blister.
5. Add the baby spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
6. Season the vegetables with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with a splash of the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together gently to combine and let the flavors meld for a minute or two.
8. Remove the skillet from heat and serve the Vegetable Pasta with Olive Oil and Garlic hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves.

This Vegetable Pasta with Olive Oil and Garlic is a versatile dish that you can customize with your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand. Feel free to add mushrooms, artichokes, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of spice. The key to this recipe is to let the freshness of the ingredients shine through, so don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own. Enjoy a taste of Italy right in your own home with this simple yet flavorful dish that is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Buon appetito!