Simplify your weeknight dinner routine with our wholesome and delicious Vegetable Pasta Crock Pot recipe that practically cooks itself! This dish is perfect for those busy days when you want a comforting, home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Packed with nutritious veggies and hearty pasta, it’s a one-pot wonder that the whole family will love. Let the slow cooker work its magic while you go about your day, then come home to the inviting aroma of a hearty meal waiting for you.
Recipe: Vegetable Pasta Crock Pot
Ingredients:
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 8 oz pasta (such as penne or rotini)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In the crockpot, add the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, chopped celery, diced bell pepper, sliced zucchini, and halved cherry tomatoes.
2. Sprinkle in the dried oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes for a kick of flavor. Adjust the spiciness by adding more or omitting the red pepper flakes according to your taste preference.
3. Pour in the can of crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth, ensuring all the vegetables are submerged in the liquid.
4. Stir the ingredients gently to combine all the flavors, then cover the crockpot with the lid and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the vegetables are tender.
5. About 30 minutes before serving, add the pasta to the crockpot, stirring well to incorporate it into the vegetable mixture. Continue cooking until the pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring the flavors are well balanced. Remember, you can always adjust the seasoning before serving.
7. Once the pasta is cooked, serve the Vegetable Pasta Crock Pot hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped basil leaves for a burst of freshness.
Enjoy this comforting and wholesome dish that brings together the goodness of vegetables and pasta in a delightful marriage of flavors. The convenience of using a crockpot makes this recipe a winner for busy days when you crave a warm and satisfying meal without the hassle of constant monitoring. Make it your own by swapping in your favorite vegetables or adding some protein like chickpeas or tofu for an extra boost. This recipe is versatile and open to your creativity, so have fun experimenting in the kitchen and treating yourself to a delicious homemade meal with minimal effort.
