Herbed Veggie Pasta Skillet

Name: Herbed Veggie Pasta Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta of your choice; 2 cups mixed fresh vegetables (like bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes); 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love whipping up a quick dinner after a long day, and this Herbed Veggie Pasta Skillet does just the trick. It’s packed with fresh ingredients and aromatic herbs that transform simple pasta into a dish bursting with flavor. What’s great about this recipe is that it can easily adapt to whatever vegetables are in season or leftover in your fridge. Plus, it comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight meal while still being delightful enough to impress guests.

Created by

Sienna Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-15T13:28:13.735Z

Creating this Herbed Veggie Pasta Skillet was a delightful culinary experience for me. I experimented with various herbs and fresh vegetables from my garden, which added a vibrant touch to the pasta. It’s amazing how a few sprigs of basil and parsley can elevate a simple meal into something special.

I also learned that cooking the pasta just until al dente before tossing it with sautéed veggies keeps the dish from becoming overly mushy. The balance of flavors and textures made this a new favorite, and now it’s a staple in my dinner rotation.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Colorful veggies add visual appeal and nutrition
Herbs provide a fragrant aroma and fresh flavor
Quick and easy preparation for busy nights

      

The Role of Fresh Vegetables

Using a variety of fresh vegetables not only enhances the visual appeal of the Herbed Veggie Pasta Skillet but also adds a range of nutrients beneficial for your health. Bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes each contribute unique flavors and textures. Their bright colors and differing tastes create a dish that’s both aesthetically pleasing and nutritious. For a twist, consider adding asparagus or spinach, which wilt beautifully and enrich the overall flavor profile.

When choosing vegetables, opt for those that are in season or what you have lingering in your fridge. This recipe is highly adaptable, allowing you to swap out any veggies based on personal preference or availability. Just remember that firmer vegetables like carrots or broccoli may need extra cooking time to soften, while softer options like squash or spinach will cook quickly.

Herbs and Flavor Combinations

The herbs in this dish are essential for enhancing the flavor without overwhelming the palate. Both oregano and basil have aromatic profiles that complement the sweetness of the sautéed vegetables beautifully. For a fresh twist, consider experimenting with herbs like thyme or parsley, which can give the dish a different character. Just be cautious with the quantities, as fresh herbs tend to be more potent than dried.

To maximize the flavor from the herbs, add them at different stages: mixing dried herbs with the pasta allows them to infuse, while fresh herbs added at the end preserve their vibrant taste. I love to finish my skillet with a bit of fresh basil or a squeeze of lemon juice for a burst of freshness that brightens the entire dish.

Tips for Perfect Pasta

Cooking pasta to the perfect ‘al dente’ texture is crucial for this dish, providing a satisfying bite and allowing it to hold up against the sautéed vegetables. It’s wise to undercook the pasta by a minute or two since it will continue to cook when added to the skillet. This prevents sogginess and keeps everything beautifully textured. A quick tip: reserve some pasta water before draining, which you can add to the skillet for some extra moisture if needed.

If you find yourself with leftover spaghetti or fettuccine from another meal, feel free to use it in this recipe. Just prepare the sautéed vegetables as instructed and toss them with the cold, cooked pasta, incorporating a bit of the pasta water to help bind everything together. This reheat option cuts down on time and reduces food waste, while still delivering a comforting meal.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Skillet

8 oz pasta of your choice
2 cups mixed fresh vegetables (like bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables or herbs!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and add the pasta. Cook 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 mixed vegetables and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until tender. Add the minced garlic and continue cooking for another minute.

Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sautéed veggies. Sprinkle in the oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.

Serve and Enjoy

If desired, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving. Enjoy your delicious and colorful Herbed Veggie Pasta Skillet!

This dish is perfect for vegetarian nights or as a side for your favorite protein.

Pro Tips

For added protein, consider throwing in some cooked chicken or chickpeas. Also, feel free to swap in your favorite herbs or spices for a unique twist.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Herbed Veggie Pasta Skillet is a fantastic candidate for meal prep! You can chop the vegetables and mix the herbs in advance, storing them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, simply sauté the prepped ingredients and add the cooked pasta for a quick weeknight meal. This strategy can save you precious time when your schedule is tight.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheating is simple; just add a splash of olive oil or reserved pasta water to the skillet to prevent drying out. If you decide to freeze the dish, consider freezing the vegetables and pasta separately to ensure the best texture when reheating.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Herbed Veggie Pasta Skillet for guests, consider serving it alongside a fresh arugula salad with a simple vinaigrette. The peppery greens contrast nicely with the savory pasta, creating a balanced meal. You might also serve it with crusty garlic bread to soak up any remaining flavors on your plate.

For a protein boost, add grilled chicken or chickpeas to the skillet before serving. Tossing in cooked shrimp or adding a can of beans will not only enhance the nutritional value but also create a more filling dish. Just remember to adjust seasoning accordingly, as adding protein can dilute flavors.

Variations to Try

This recipe is highly customizable, so don't hesitate to experiment with different types of pasta, such as whole wheat or gluten-free options. You can also substitute the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast for a vegan version that still provides a cheesy flavor.

For added heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes during the sautéing process. Alternatively, if you're feeling adventurous, a splash of balsamic vinegar or a dollop of pesto stirred in at the end can introduce a whole new depth of flavor. Each tweak transforms this dish into something uniquely yours.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables work well in this dish. Just make sure to cook them until they're heated through.

→ What kind of pasta works best?

You can use any type of pasta, such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti. Choose your favorite!

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Simply use gluten-free pasta instead of regular pasta for a gluten-free version.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and then quickly sauté them when you’re ready to serve.