Family-Friendly Baked Pasta with Vegetables

This delightful baked pasta dish is perfect for the whole family, offering a delicious combination of wholesome ingredients and savory flavors. Packed with fresh vegetables like zucchini, broccoli, cherry tomatoes, and cauliflower, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a hint of oregano add a rich depth of flavor, making it an irresistible option for a cozy family dinner. With a preparation time of just around 30 minutes, it's a convenient meal choice that doesn't compromise on taste. This recipe is versatile, easily adjustable to suit dietary preferences or ingredient availability. The baked pasta makes for a filling main course, providing comfort and warmth, especially during colder months. Each bite of this dish offers a balance of textures, from the tender pasta to the roasted vegetables, creating an appetizing experience. Serve it with a simple side salad or some garlic bread to complete the meal. Enjoy this heartwarming dish that brings smiles to the table and leaves everyone feeling satisfied.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

250 g whole grain pasta
150 g zucchini
1 small head of broccoli
6 cherry tomatoes
1 small head of cauliflower
1 clove of garlic

Spices and Sauces

50 g Parmesan cheese
1 tsp oregano
A pinch of salt

Preparation Time

Total Time: 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 190°C. This ensures the oven is at the right temperature when it's time to bake, giving you consistent results every time.
Prepare the vegetables. Chop the cherry tomatoes and zucchini into bite-sized pieces. Break the broccoli and cauliflower into small florets. Mince the garlic finely.
Combine the vegetables. Place all the vegetables in a large mixing bowl. Add a drizzle of olive oil, the oregano, and a pinch of salt. Toss the ingredients together until well coated with the oil and spices.
Cook the pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole grain pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well.
Mix pasta and vegetables. In the mixing bowl with the seasoned vegetables, add the cooked pasta. Stir everything together until evenly mixed.
Prepare for baking. Transfer the pasta and vegetable mixture into a baking dish. Make sure to spread it out evenly across the dish to ensure uniform baking.
Add cheese. Grate the Parmesan cheese over the pasta and vegetables, covering the top layer thoroughly.
Bake the dish. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
Check doneness. Near the end of baking, check whether the cheese is bubbling and the edges are slightly crispy. This indicates that it's ready.
Remove and cool. Once baked, take the dish out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serve. Scoop generous portions onto each plate. This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or a slice of crusty bread.
Storage. If you have leftovers, cover them and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Customization. Feel free to add other favorite vegetables or proteins like chicken or beans for an extra boost.
Spice variation. Adjust spices to taste, perhaps adding a touch of chili flakes for a hint of heat.
Garlic advice: Roasting the garlic with the vegetables gives an extra depth of flavor.
Olive oil choice. Use high-quality olive oil for richer flavor.
Cheese alternatives: Consider using mozzarella or cheddar if you prefer a different cheese flavor.
Add herbs. Fresh herbs like basil could enhance the flavor profile nicely.
Gluten-free option: Swap out the whole grain pasta for a gluten-free variety without compromising taste.
Enjoy! This dish is more than just a meal; it’s an experience to be savored.

Tips

Substitutions: If you don't have Parmesan, use mozzarella or your favorite cheese.
Make it vegan: Replace cheese with a vegan alternative for a dairy-free version.
Enhance flavor: Add olives or capers for a unique twist.

Nutrition

Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
Protein: 15g
Fats: 12g
Carbs: 42g

Variations

Protein boost: Add grilled chicken or tofu for extra protein.
Different veggies: Use bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach as substitutions.
Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a green salad and a light vinaigrette for a complete meal.
Pair with garlic bread for an added layer of flavor and texture.

Best Places

[Bottega Louie] - Known for its exquisite pasta dishes and pastries. Location: 700 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, USA.
[Pasta Fresca] - Offers a cozy atmosphere with classic Italian pasta. Location: 56 Bukit Timah Road, Singapore.
[Trattoria Al Pompiere] - Family-run restaurant famed for traditional pasta. Location: Vicolo Regina, Verona, Italy.
[Roscioli] - Combines deli and restaurant experience, top-notch pasta here. Location: Via dei Giubbonari, Rome, Italy.
[Pastaio] - Known for fresh pasta and lively atmosphere. Location: 19 Ganton St, London, UK.
[Osteria Mamma] - Family-oriented spot offering homemade pasta. Location: 5732 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, USA.
[Il Desco Bistro] - Combines culinary elegance with heritage recipes. Location: Via Dietro Listone, Verona, Italy.
[Locanda Verde] - Rustic Italian vibe with award-winning pasta. Location: 377 Greenwich St, New York, USA.
[Alla Vecchia Bettola] - Celebrated for hearty Tuscan pasta dishes. Location: Viale Vasco Pratolini, Florence, Italy.
[Café Fernand] - Offers both classic and unconventional pasta creations. Location: Rue des Ecoles, Paris, France.