Ingredients:
– 12 ounces (340g) organic whole grain pasta (rotini, penne, or your favorite shape)
– 1 tablespoon organic olive oil
– 1 medium organic onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves organic garlic, minced
– 1 organic red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 organic zucchini, chopped
– 1 cup organic mushrooms, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 ounces) organic diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 ounces) organic tomato sauce
– 1 teaspoon organic dried basil
– 1 teaspoon organic dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon organic dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon organic red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
– 1 fresh organic jalapeño, finely chopped (optional for extra heat)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup organic fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
– Organic parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– 1/4 teaspoon organic cayenne pepper (optional for extra spice)
Instructions:
- **Cook the Pasta:**
– Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- **Prepare the Sauce:**
– In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until they become translucent, about 5 minutes.
- **Add Vegetables:**
– Add the chopped red bell pepper, zucchini, and mushrooms to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- **Add Tomatoes and Spices:**
– Add the diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, dried basil, dried oregano, dried thyme, red pepper flakes, and fresh jalapeño (if using) to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
- **Simmer the Sauce:**
– Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add cayenne pepper if you like extra heat. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- **Combine Pasta and Sauce:**
– Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
- **Serve:**
– Serve the Spicy Rotini Pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil and parsley.
Serving Suggestion:
– Serve this fiery vegetable pasta with a side of mixed green salad dressed with a light lemon vinaigrette for a complete, nutritious plant-based meal.
We’d love to hear your thoughts!
– How did your dish turn out?
– Did you make any modifications?
– What did you serve it with?
– Any other tips or suggestions?
Comments:
**SpiceLover:** Wow, this pasta really packs a punch! I added some extra jalapeños and it was perfect.
**PastaFan:** Great recipe! I toned down the spice a bit and it was still super flavorful. Served it with garlic bread.