Simply Italian
A quick and flavorful Italian pasta dish featuring vegetables, garlic, and basil in a light tomato sauce, perfect for a wholesome and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion, minced garlic, basil, sliced mushrooms, and drained tomatoes; cook for 5 minutes.
- Add frozen mixed vegetables, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Cook for approximately 10 minutes, stirring often until vegetables are tender but crisp.
- Pour the vegetable mixture over cooked and drained spaghetti.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider sautéing the onions until caramelized before adding the garlic and mushrooms. You can substitute the frozen mixed vegetables with fresh seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for a vibrant twist. If you want a richer sauce, add a splash of cream or use Mascarpone And Honey Sauce as a topping.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish with a side of Baked Italian Bread for a complete meal. A light salad dressed with olive oil and vinegar pairs nicely, balancing the flavors. For an even heartier dish, top with grated Parmesan cheese or browse more Vegetarian recipes for additional ideas.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, use a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent the spaghetti from drying out. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Simply Italian contains roughly 166 calories, with 14g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (164% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (91% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1992mg per serving (87% 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 whole wheat spaghetti instead of regular spaghetti?
Yes, whole wheat spaghetti is a great alternative that adds fiber and nutrients. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to package instructions, as whole wheat pasta may cook a little longer than regular pasta.
What can I add for extra protein in this dish?
To add protein, consider mixing in cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. These options will complement the flavors well and make the dish more filling, perfect for a satisfying dinner.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This recipe stores well and can be made in advance. Just keep the sauce separate from the pasta until you're ready to eat to maintain texture. It reheats beautifully, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights.
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).