Herbed Veggie Pasta Skillet

Name: Herbed Veggie Pasta Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz whole grain pasta; 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 zucchini, sliced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup spinach; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love whipping up this Herbed Veggie Pasta Skillet when I need a quick and flavorful meal. The vibrant colors of the fresh vegetables mixed with perfectly cooked pasta always elevate my spirit. It’s a dish that is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients. I enjoy customizing the vegetables based on what I have on hand, making it a versatile choice for any night of the week. Whether it’s for a busy weekday dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this pasta skillet has become one of my go-to recipes.

Created by

Eden Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-15T13:52:13.012Z

When I first experimented with this Herbed Veggie Pasta Skillet, I wanted to create something quick yet satisfying. The key was to use fresh herbs and seasonal vegetables to bring the dish to life. I discovered that adding a splash of lemon juice at the end really brightens the flavors, making each bite a joy. It’s also incredible how a simple combination of garlic and olive oil can transform basic pasta into a vibrant meal.

One tip I’d like to share is to not overcrowd the skillet. Cooking the vegetables in batches ensures they get perfectly tender and caramelized, adding depth to the flavor. I’ve also found that using whole grain pasta enhances the dish's nutritional value while providing a lovely nutty flavor. This dish remains a family favorite and is great for leftovers!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Bursting with fresh, seasonal flavors
Quick and easy to prepare in under 35 minutes
Perfect for using up leftover vegetables

      

Maximizing Freshness

Using fresh vegetables in this Herbed Veggie Pasta Skillet is key to achieving the best flavor profile. Opt for seasonal produce to ensure ideal texture and taste. For instance, you might substitute asparagus in the spring or add sweet corn in the summer for a delightful crunch. Fresh herbs like basil and parsley are not just garnish; they infuse the entire dish with aromatic qualities that brighten each bite. For those times when fresh herbs are unavailable, a teaspoon of dried herbs can do the trick, though the fresh variety is always superior.

Pay attention to the cooking time of each vegetable to maintain their vibrant colors and nutrients. You want to sauté until they are slightly tender without losing their crunch. Aim for veggies that are just beginning to soften, generally around 5-7 minutes on medium heat. Keep in mind that cherry tomatoes should be added last, only cooked until they are slightly blistered, preserving their juiciness while melding into the dish's overall flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta skillet is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving suggestions. For an added layer of indulgence, try drizzling a bit of balsamic glaze over the top just before serving, which complements the acidity of the lemon. Pair the dish with a simple arugula salad tossed in olive oil and lemon for a refreshing contrast. This gives a nice balance and rounds out the meal beautifully, especially if you're serving it for company.

If you're looking to enhance the protein content, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp during the combination step. Cook them separately and then fold them in with the pasta and veggies. Alternatively, for a vegetarian protein boost, toss in some chickpeas or cannellini beans. These modifications keep the dish hearty while still allowing the fresh flavors to shine through.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Skillet

8 oz whole grain pasta
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 zucchini, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup spinach
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Gather everything you need and get ready to create a delicious veggie pasta feast!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the diced red bell pepper and zucchini, cooking for about 5-7 minutes until they start to soften.

Combine Everything

Stir in the cherry tomatoes and spinach, cooking until the spinach wilts. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with the fresh basil and parsley. Pour the lemon juice over everything and toss to combine.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve warm. Optionally, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Herbed Veggie Pasta Skillet!

Pro Tips

Feel free to swap out any vegetables to suit your taste or what’s in season. Frozen vegetables can also be a great alternative if you’re short on time!

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with this Herbed Veggie Pasta Skillet by incorporating seasonal ingredients or whatever you have left in your fridge. You could switch out broccoli or bell peppers, or even throw in some frozen peas halfway through cooking for a pop of sweetness. Experimenting with different pasta shapes can also change the experience; try rotini or farfalle for a fun twist.

For an additional flavor kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a small diced jalapeño while sautéing the garlic. This enhances the dish with a subtle heat that complements the freshness of the vegetables without overwhelming them. Each variation not only alters the flavor but also keeps the dish feeling new and exciting.

Storing and Reheating

If you happen to have leftovers, store the Herbed Veggie Pasta Skillet in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, consider using a skillet over low heat rather than the microwave to prevent overcooking the vegetables. Adding a splash of water or olive oil while reheating will help revitalize the pasta without drying it out.

For longer storage, you can freeze the skillet. Before freezing, make sure to cool the mixture completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to three months. When ready to enjoy again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove, adding a bit of fresh spinach or herbs to refresh the flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time according to the gluten-free pasta package instructions.

→ How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas are all great additions for added protein.

→ Is this dish vegan?

Yes, as long as you omit the Parmesan cheese, this dish is completely vegan.