Table of Contents

Hidden Veggie Pasta

A Nutrient-Packed Family Favorite

Introduction
Hidden Veggie Pasta is a clever and delicious way to incorporate a variety of vegetables into a classic pasta dish, making it a perfect choice for families and individuals who want to boost their veggie intake in meal. This step-by-step guide will help you make a delicious and nutrient-packed hidden veggie pasta that is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.

Hidden Veggie Pasta Ingredient List

Ingredient	Quantity
Whole wheat or regular pasta	8 oz (about 225g)
Olive oil	2 tablespoons
Garlic, minced	2 cloves
Onion, finely chopped	1 medium
Carrot, grated	1 large
Zucchini, grated	1 medium
Red bell pepper, diced	1 medium
Crushed tomatoes	1 can (14 oz)
Tomato paste	2 tablespoons
Italian seasoning	1 teaspoon
Salt and pepper	to test
Parmesan cheese, grated	for serving
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped	for garnish

Ingredients
Gather the following materials to get started:
2 cups of your favorite pasta (penne, fusilli, or any shape you like)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 carrot, grated
1 zucchini, grated
1 capsicum (red or yellow), finely chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, cut in half
1 cup spinach leaves, chopped
1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)

Step 1: Choose your pasta
Select your favorite pasta and cook it according to the package instructions. Make sure to cook it al dente so it retains some firmness.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add a finely chopped onion and finely chopped garlic. Sauté until the onions become translucent and the garlic becomes fragrant, creating a flavorful base for your sauce.

Step 3: Add grated vegetables
Grate the carrots and zucchini. These vegetables will blend seamlessly into the sauce and provide additional nutrition without altering the taste. Put grated carrots and zucchini in a pan and cook well.

Step 4: Add the Bell Peppers and Cherry Tomatoes
Finely chop a capsicum (red or yellow) and cut a cherry tomato in half. Add them to the pan and continue frying until the vegetables become soft; do not overcook the vegetables.

Step 5: Add the spinach.
Cut the spinach leaves and put them in the pan. Spinach wilts quickly, so stir it and let it cook. The vibrant green color adds both nutrition and visual appeal to your dishes.

Step 6: Make the Hidden Veggie Sauce
Add crushed tomatoes and mix well. Add dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. These herbs enhance the flavor of the sauce, providing a full flavor.

Step 7: Boil to perfection
Let the sauce simmer on a low flame for about 15–20 minutes. This allows the flavors to mingle and soften the vegetables, creating a harmonious and flavorful sauce.

Step 8: Mix with Pasta
Once the sauce is cooked, add the cooked pasta directly to the pan. Mix the pasta with the hidden veggie sauce, making sure each piece of pasta gets coated in the delicious mixture.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve
For an optional finishing touch, garnish the hidden veggie pasta with grated Parmesan cheese. Cheese adds a delicious flavor and complements the vegetable-forward dish. Serve the pasta hot, and watch as even the most vegetable-resistant individuals enjoy a nutritious feast.

Step 10: Customize and Enjoy
Feel free to customize your hidden veggie pasta by adding fresh herbs, a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. This versatile recipe can be adapted to suit your taste preferences.

Conclusion
Hidden Veggie Pasta offers a creative and satisfying way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. By hiding them in delicious pasta sauce, you can enjoy a nutritious and delicious meal that all family members will love. Experiment with different vegetables and pasta sizes to make this recipe your own while promoting a healthy and balanced lifestyle.