Pasta all'Ortolana - Vegetarian Garden Pasta

Servings: 4

Author: Chef Connie

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Pasta all'Ortolana - Vegetarian Garden Pasta

Pasta all'Ortolana is a traditional Italian dish that celebrates fresh, seasonal vegetables. It's light, healthy, and full of vibrant flavors, making it the perfect choice for a hearty yet wholesome meal.

Prep time: 10 MinCook time: 25 MinTotal time: 35 Min

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Ingredients

• 10 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work well)
• 1 medium zucchini, diced
• 1 medium eggplant, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 oz cherry tomatoes, halved
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Optional: Parmesan cheese or vegan alternative, grated

Instructions

1. Dice the zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers into bite-sized pieces.
2. Halve the cherry tomatoes and finely chop the onion.
3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
4. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
5. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
6. In a large skillet or frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
7. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant and slightly softened (about 2 minutes).
8. Add the diced eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers to the skillet.
9. Sauté for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.
10. Stir in the cherry tomatoes and sprinkle with oregano, salt, and pepper.
11. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and release their juices.
12. If the mixture looks dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to create a light sauce.
13. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss well to combine.
14. Cook for 2–3 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb the flavors of the vegetables.
15. Divide the pasta among serving plates.
16. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and, if desired, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a vegan cheese alternative.
17. Serve immediately and enjoy your fresh Pasta all’Ortolana!

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Pasta all'Ortolana is a vibrant Italian dish that celebrates fresh vegetables and seasonal produce, making it a delightful option for both vegetarians and pasta lovers alike. Typically featuring a mix of zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, and tomatoes, this dish is often tossed with al dente pasta and a drizzle of olive oil, allowing the natural flavors of the vegetables to shine through. Aromatic herbs such as basil or oregano can enhance the taste, while grated cheese, like Parmesan, may be sprinkled on top for added richness. The result is a colorful, hearty meal that embodies the essence of Italian cooking, promoting simplicity and quality ingredients.

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