Bow ties with veggies is a vibrant and wholesome pasta dish that brings together colorful vegetables and tender bow tie pasta in a light, flavorful sauce. This quick and easy recipe features a medley of fresh vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes, all sautéed in olive oil with garlic and herbs for an aromatic, healthy meal. The bow tie pasta, also known as farfalle, is the perfect shape to catch the deliciously seasoned sauce and bits of veggies in every bite. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a light lunch, this dish can be served on its own or as a side to grilled chicken or fish, making it a versatile and family-friendly option.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz bow tie (farfalle) pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, torn (for garnish)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bow tie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water, and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the sliced red onion, red and yellow bell peppers, and zucchini to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
- Stir in the cherry tomatoes and dried Italian seasoning. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes are slightly softened.
- Combine Pasta and Vegetables:
- Add the cooked bow tie pasta to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Toss everything together to combine, adding a splash of the reserved pasta cooking water to create a light sauce that coats the pasta.
- Finish and Serve:
- Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the pasta and veggies with grated Parmesan cheese and toss to mix. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a pinch of red pepper flakes, if desired, for a hint of spice.
- Serve the bow ties with veggies immediately, either on its own or as a side dish to your favorite protein.
Bow ties with veggies is a simple yet delicious pasta dish that’s bursting with fresh flavors and bright colors. It’s a perfect choice for a light, healthy meal that’s quick to prepare, making it an excellent addition to any meal plan.
