Improvisation Pasta
Dive into the art of culinary creativity with Improvisation Pasta, a quick and versatile recipe perfect for weeknights or when you're looking to clean out your fridge. This adaptable dish begins with your choice of pasta—spaghetti, penne, or whatever you have on hand—and is brought to life with sautéed garlic, onion, and a vibrant medley of vegetables like cherry tomatoes, spinach, or bell peppers. Customize further with optional protein like tender chicken, shrimp, or tofu, and a light, flavorful sauce made from broth or reserved pasta water. Finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs, this recipe celebrates flexibility and flavor. With just 10 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking time, Improvisation Pasta is your go-to for a fast, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable meal. Keywords: customizable pasta recipe, quick pasta dinner, versatile weeknight meal.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 250 g pasta (any type: spaghetti, penne, etc.)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 200 g vegetables (e.g., cherry tomatoes, spinach, bell peppers, mushrooms—your choice)
- 150 g protein (e.g., cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu—optional)
- 120 ml broth (vegetable, chicken, or pasta water)
- 50 g grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
- to taste salt
- to taste pepper
- 0.5 tsp red chili flakes (optional, for heat)
- 2 tbsp fresh herbs (e.g., parsley, basil, or cilantro—optional)
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 120 ml of pasta water or broth, then drain and set aside.
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and chopped onion to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and soft, but not browned.
Stir in your choice of vegetables. If using firmer vegetables (like bell peppers or mushrooms), cook them for 5-7 minutes until tender. If using delicate greens like spinach, add them last and sauté for 1-2 minutes.
Optional: Add your pre-cooked protein to the skillet and sauté for another 2-3 minutes to heat through.
Pour the reserved pasta water or broth into the skillet to create a light sauce. Stir well to combine with the vegetables and protein.
Season with salt, pepper, and red chili flakes (if using), adjusting to taste.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the sauce.
Remove from heat. Optionally, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs before serving.
Serve immediately and enjoy your custom Improvisation Pasta!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1215 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 50.6 g | 65% | |
| Saturated Fat | 15.3 g | 76% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 168 mg | 56% | |
| Sodium | 3282 mg | 143% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 102.1 g | 37% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 10.9 g | 39% | |
| Total Sugars | 11.3 g | ||
| Protein | 86.0 g | 172% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.2 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 712 mg | 55% | |
| Iron | 7.1 mg | 39% | |
| Potassium | 1404 mg | 30% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
