Are you tired of boring, bland pasta dishes that leave your family uninspired? Get ready to transform your dinner table with the Foodbuzz Family Bites Pasta Medley - a mouthwatering Italian-inspired creation that promises to tantalize taste buds and bring smiles to every face! This easy-to-make recipe combines fresh vegetables, perfectly cooked pasta, and a burst of Mediterranean flavors that will make you the culinary hero of your household.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups pasta
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup olives
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all the ingredients needed for the Foodbuzz Family Bites Pasta Medley. Ensure you have 2 cups of pasta, 1 chopped zucchini, 1 chopped bell pepper, 1 can of diced tomatoes, 1/2 cup of olives, and 1/4 cup of grated parmesan cheese.
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Once boiling, add a pinch of salt and then add the 2 cups of pasta. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Wash and chop the zucchini and bell pepper into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
- In a large skillet or saucepan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped zucchini and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.
- Add the can of diced tomatoes (with their juices) to the skillet. Stir well to combine with the sautéed vegetables. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
- While the vegetable and tomato mixture simmers, check the pasta. Once it is cooked, drain it in a colander and set aside.
- After the tomato and vegetable mixture has simmered, add the drained pasta to the skillet. Stir to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.
- Add the 1/2 cup of olives to the pasta medley and mix well. Allow the mixture to cook together for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the pasta medley is heated through, remove it from the heat. Sprinkle the 1/4 cup of grated parmesan cheese over the top and gently fold it into the pasta until well distributed.
- Serve the Foodbuzz Family Bites Pasta Medley warm, garnished with extra parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious Italian dish with family and friends!
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: Use a medium-sized pasta like penne or rotini that can hold the sauce and vegetable chunks well.
- Al Dente is Key: Don't overcook your pasta! Aim for that perfect tender-yet-firm texture by following package instructions and testing a piece before draining.
- Enhance Flavor: Consider adding a clove of minced garlic when sautéing vegetables for an extra flavor boost.
- Customize Your Medley: Feel free to swap vegetables based on seasonal availability or family preferences. Eggplant, spinach, or mushrooms work great too!
- Cheese Matters: Use freshly grated parmesan for the most robust flavor. Pre-grated cheese can be less flavorful and more dry.
- Make it Ahead: This dish reheats wonderfully, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 10mg