Comfort Food Made Healthy: The Ultimate Vegetarian Pasta Casserole Recipe
Who doesn’t love a good, comforting casserole? It’s the ultimate comfort food that brings us back to our childhood and fills us with warmth and happiness. And what’s better than a healthy and delicious vegetarian pasta casserole that satisfies both our taste buds and our health-conscious minds?
The Ultimate Vegetarian Pasta Casserole is the perfect combination of wholesome ingredients and comforting flavors. It’s packed with nutrients, fiber, and protein, making it a satisfying and nourishing meal for the whole family.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of whole grain pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 1 zucchini, diced
– 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup of spinach
– 1 can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup of marinara sauce
– 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, then set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until softened.
4. Add the bell pepper, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Add the spinach and chickpeas to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the spinach is wilted.
6. Stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning, then add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until everything is well combined.
7. Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased casserole dish and sprinkle the top with mozzarella cheese, if desired.
8. Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
This Ultimate Vegetarian Pasta Casserole is the perfect way to enjoy your favorite comfort food while staying on track with your healthy eating goals. It’s packed full of vegetables, fiber, and protein, making it a well-rounded and satisfying meal. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and can be customized with your favorite veggies and spices.
So the next time you’re in need of some comfort food, give this healthy and delicious vegetarian pasta casserole a try. It’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation!
