5 Speedy Meals for Busy Nights

Why Make This Recipe

This pasta dish is perfect for busy nights. It’s quick to prepare and uses fresh ingredients that are easily customizable. You can use whatever protein and vegetables you have on hand, making it a versatile and healthy choice for any weeknight dinner.

How to Make Quick Vegetable and Protein Pasta

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of pasta (your choice)
• 2 cups of fresh vegetables (like bell peppers, broccoli, or spinach)
• 1 cup of protein (chicken, shrimp, or beans)
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated cheese (optional)

Directions:

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add your choice of protein and cook until fully cooked.
4. Add fresh vegetables and garlic powder to the pan. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
5. Mix the cooked pasta back into the pan. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve hot, and sprinkle with cheese if desired.

How to Serve Quick Vegetable and Protein Pasta

Serve the pasta hot in bowls. You can garnish it with extra grated cheese or fresh herbs for added flavor. This dish pairs well with a side salad or some crusty bread.

How to Store Quick Vegetable and Protein Pasta

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best used within 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water to bring back moisture.

Tips to Make Quick Vegetable and Protein Pasta

• Use any type of pasta you like. Whole grain, gluten-free, or regular pasta all work well.
• Feel free to mix and match the vegetables and protein based on what you have in your fridge.
• Add more garlic or your favorite herbs and spices for extra flavor.

Variation

You can make this dish a bit different by using different sauces. For a creamy version, add some cream or cheese. For a more tangy flavor, toss in some lemon juice or vinegar.

FAQs

Can I make this pasta dish ahead of time?
Yes, but for the best taste, it’s recommended to add the vegetables and protein fresh when you’re ready to eat.

What can I substitute for pasta?
If you want a lower-carb option, try zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead.

Can I use frozen vegetables?
Absolutely! Frozen vegetables are a great time-saver. Just add them to the pan and sauté until heated through.

Quick Vegetable and Protein Pasta

A versatile and healthy pasta dish that is quick to prepare using fresh ingredients, perfect for busy weeknight dinners.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 450

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Pasta Ingredients

• 1 pound pasta (your choice)
• 2 cups fresh vegetables (like bell peppers, broccoli, or spinach) Any combination of fresh vegetables can be used.
• 1 cup protein (chicken, shrimp, or beans) Use your favorite protein.

Cooking Essentials

• 2 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder Can adjust to taste.
• to taste salt and pepper Adjust seasoning to your preference.
• Grated cheese (optional) For serving, can use any preferred cheese.

Method

 

Cooking the Pasta

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Cooking the Protein and Vegetables

1. In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add your choice of protein and cook until fully cooked.
3. Add fresh vegetables and garlic powder to the pan. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until vegetables are tender.

Mixing and Serving

1. Mix the cooked pasta back into the pan. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Serve hot, and sprinkle with cheese if desired.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and use within 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water to bring back moisture. Feel free to mix and match vegetables and protein based on what you have.