Pasta Bella
A vibrant vegetable pasta dish with melted cheeses, garlic, and fresh garden vegetables, perfect for a hearty, flavorful vegetarian meal that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
- 16 oz. pasta (garden spirals or macaroni) ⓘ
- 1/2 lb. butter or margarine ⓘ
- 1 pod garlic, finely chopped ⓘ
- 2 cups diced tomatoes ⓘ
- 2 cups chopped onions ⓘ
- 2 cups chopped zucchini ⓘ
- 2 cups sliced mushrooms ⓘ
- 2 cups broccoli tops only ⓘ
- 2 cups chopped carrots ⓘ
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese ⓘ
- 5 cups grated Mozzarella cheese ⓘ
Instructions
- Melt butter or margarine in a large sauté skillet.
- Add finely chopped garlic and chopped vegetables (onions, zucchini, mushrooms, carrots), except for broccoli and tomatoes.
- Sauté on medium heat until vegetables are tender.
- Add diced tomatoes and sauté until tender.
- Drain off half the butter and return the skillet to low heat.
- Cook and drain the pasta while sautéing the vegetables.
- Add cooked pasta to the vegetables in the skillet.
- Stir in grated Parmesan and Mozzarella cheeses.
- Continue tossing until cheese is melted and well combined.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding Italian herbs like basil or oregano to the sautéed vegetables. If you want a lighter version, substitute half the butter with olive oil. For a protein boost, add cooked chicken or shrimp. Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables, such as spinach or bell peppers, to customize this dish. This recipe also pairs beautifully with Stuffed Cheese Shells for a hearty meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Pasta Bella warm, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for added color. It pairs well with a simple green salad drizzled with Italian Dressing For Veggies for a refreshing contrast. For a heartier meal, serve alongside crusty garlic bread. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners, offering a delightful vegetarian option.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. Stir occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until warm. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain quality.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pasta Bella contains roughly 1590 calories, with 41g protein, 200g carbohydrates, and 73g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (321% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (108% of the Daily Value), and vitamin D (106% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1477mg per serving (64% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use gluten-free pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute gluten-free pasta in this recipe. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package, as gluten-free pasta may have different cooking times. The rest of the ingredients remain the same, allowing you to enjoy the flavors without gluten.
What can I add if I want more protein in this dish?
For added protein, consider mixing in cooked chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas. Tofu is also a great vegetarian option that can absorb the flavors of the dish. Just sauté the protein of your choice until cooked through before adding it with the pasta and cheese.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, try incorporating red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic and vegetables. Alternatively, you can serve the dish with a side of hot sauce or sprinkle sliced jalapeños on top. This will give your Pasta Bella a delightful kick without overwhelming the other flavors.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).