Introduction
There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of pasta, and this Rigatoni Pasta dish is sure to become a favorite in your home. Bursting with fresh vegetables and savory flavors, it’s the perfect weeknight meal that brings the heart of Italian cooking right to your table. With its golden, tender rigatoni enveloped in a rich tomato sauce, you’ll find every bite to be a delightful experience. Whether you’re cooking for family or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this dish is a warm hug in culinary form!
Ingredients
- 12 ounces rigatoni pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by cooking the rigatoni pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside to await its saucy transformation!
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it turns translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
- Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, allowing the enticing aroma to fill your kitchen.
- Add the diced red bell pepper and zucchini to the skillet. Let them cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and vibrant in color.
- To the skillet, stir in the canned diced tomatoes, tomato paste, dried basil, dried oregano, and season with salt and pepper. Bring this delightful mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Introduce the cooked rigatoni to the skillet, tossing gently to coat the pasta in the luscious sauce.
- Off the heat, stir in half of the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and creamy.
- Finally, serve the rigatoni in bowls, generously sprinkle the remaining Parmesan on top, and don’t forget to garnish with fresh basil for a burst of color and flavor!
Notes or Tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes to your sauce for a touch of heat.
- This recipe is perfect for meal prep; simply store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge.
- Feel free to swap out any vegetables you have on hand, such as spinach or mushrooms, for a personalized twist!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe utilizes basic techniques such as boiling pasta and sautéing vegetables, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. Sautéing the onions and garlic first helps to develop a solid flavor base, while simmering the sauce allows the ingredients to meld together beautifully. Tossing the rigatoni into the sauce at the end ensures that every piece of pasta is coated in delicious flavor.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta?
No problem! While rigatoni holds sauce beautifully, feel free to use your favorite pasta shape, such as penne or fusilli.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian! Simply enjoy it as is, or add in your favorite vegetables for more variety.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the rigatoni pasta! Just make sure to store it in an airtight container. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave for best results.
Conclusion
This Rigatoni Pasta is a delightful dish that combines simplicity and rich flavor, making it an ideal choice for dinner any night of the week. With its fresh ingredients and quick preparation, you’ll find that this recipe not only satisfies your cravings but also brings joy to the dinner table. So gather your loved ones, savor the deliciousness, and enjoy each creamy, cheesy bite!