Imagine a dish that transforms ordinary vegetables and pasta into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Our Parmesan Vegetables over Bow Ties is not just a meal, it's a flavor explosion that combines the rich, nutty essence of Parmesan cheese with perfectly sautéed vegetables and al dente bow tie pasta. In just 35 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-quality Italian-inspired dish that's both elegant and incredibly easy to prepare.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz bow tie pasta
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, carrots)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and bring to a rolling boil. Add a pinch of salt to the water.
- Add bow tie pasta to boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until pasta is al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/4 cup of pasta water.
- While pasta is cooking, wash and chop mixed vegetables into uniform bite-sized pieces. Ensure zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots are cut to similar sizes for even cooking.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Add chopped vegetables to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender but still crisp.
- Add cooked bow tie pasta to the skillet with vegetables. Toss gently to combine, using reserved pasta water if mixture seems dry.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and vegetables. Stir to distribute cheese evenly and allow it to slightly melt.
- Remove from heat, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, with additional Parmesan cheese on the side if desired.
Tips
- Vegetable Cutting Technique: Cut your vegetables into uniform bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and a professional presentation.
- Pasta Water Magic: Always reserve a bit of pasta water when draining. This starchy liquid helps create a silky sauce and helps ingredients bind together beautifully.
- Garlic Wisdom: Sauté garlic quickly and watch carefully to prevent burning, which can make it bitter. 30-45 seconds is your sweet spot.
- Cheese Melting Trick: Let the residual heat from the pasta and vegetables gently melt the Parmesan for a smooth, creamy texture.
- Season Gradually: Taste and adjust salt and pepper throughout cooking for a perfectly balanced flavor profile.
- Optional Enhancements: Consider adding red pepper flakes for a subtle kick or fresh herbs like basil or parsley for extra freshness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 22mg
