Looking for a delicious and satisfying dish that’s perfect for spring? Look no further than this Vegan Spring Pasta Bake! Bursting with vibrant vegetables and creamy vegan cheese, this dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a wholesome meal that will leave you feeling great. With just 45 minutes of your time, you can whip up a comforting, Italian-inspired bake that’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s dive into the recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta of choice
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup spinach
- 1 cup vegan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving a small amount of pasta water.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced bell peppers and sliced zucchini. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until vegetables are slightly softened but still crisp.
- Add halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Add spinach to the skillet and cook until just wilted, approximately 1-2 minutes.
- In the prepared baking dish, combine cooked pasta and sautéed vegetables. Gently mix to distribute ingredients evenly.
- Sprinkle vegan cheese over the top of the pasta and vegetable mixture, ensuring even coverage.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegan cheese is melted and slightly golden.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving. If desired, garnish with fresh herbs or additional seasoning.
Tips
- Pasta Choice: Feel free to experiment with different types of pasta! Whole grain, gluten-free, or even chickpea pasta can add unique flavors and textures to your dish.
- Vegetable Variations: Don’t hesitate to mix and match seasonal vegetables based on your preference. Asparagus, artichokes, or even broccoli can make excellent additions to the bake.
- Cheese Options: If you’re not strictly vegan, consider using your favorite cheese for a creamier texture. Otherwise, look for high-quality vegan cheese that melts well for the best results.
- Herb Boost: For an extra flavor kick, try adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano to the vegetable mixture before baking. This will enhance the overall taste and freshness of your dish.
- Leftovers: This pasta bake makes great leftovers! Store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Garnish: Elevate your presentation by garnishing with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
- Customize Your Bake: Add protein sources like chickpeas or lentils for a heartier meal. They’ll blend seamlessly with the pasta and veggies while boosting the nutritional profile.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 0mg
