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30-Minute Family-Friendly Pasta Dish

30-Minute Family-Friendly Pasta Dish

30-Minute Family-Friendly Pasta Dish
Servings 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces penne pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 medium red bell pepper diced
  • 1 medium zucchini diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 2 cups spinach fresh
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese grated
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil chopped

Instructions
 

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes.
  • While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Add the diced red bell pepper and zucchini to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften.
  • Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they start to burst slightly.
  • Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
  • Season the vegetable mixture with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
  • Once the pasta is cooked, reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
  • Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the vegetables. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
  • Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
  • Garnish with chopped fresh basil before serving. Enjoy your 30-Minute Family-Friendly Pasta Dish!

Notes

Feel free to substitute any vegetables based on your family's preferences.
You can add cooked protein like grilled chicken or shrimp for an extra boost.