Baked Wheat Pasta With Mushrooms, Broccoli and Bell Peppers

Baked Wheat Pasta With Mushrooms, Broccoli and Bell Peppers: There’s nothing quite like a delicious, hearty pasta dish that combines the wholesome goodness of wheat pasta with the vibrant flavors of fresh vegetables. Our Baked Wheat Pasta With Mushrooms, Broccoli, and Bell Peppers is a delightful blend of rich textures and savory tastes that will satisfy your cravings while offering a nutritious meal option. Perfect for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or meal prep, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. With its colorful presentation and mouth-watering aroma, this baked pasta dish is not only appetizing but also a feast for the eyes.

This recipe emphasizes the use of whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist, bringing in the added benefits of dietary fiber, essential nutrients, and a lower glycemic index compared to regular pasta. The combination of mushrooms, broccoli, and bell peppers provides a fantastic mix of flavors and textures, making each bite a delightful experience. Moreover, these vegetables are power-packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, adding a significant nutritional boost to your meal.

Also read: Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp Pasta

About the Recipe

Our Baked Wheat Pasta With Mushrooms, Broccoli, and Bell Peppers is designed to be both delicious and easy to prepare. It’s a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Here’s a closer look at the key components of this recipe:

• Whole Wheat Pasta: Using whole wheat pasta instead of traditional pasta increases the fiber content and adds a nutty flavor that complements the vegetables perfectly.
• Mushrooms: Mushrooms bring a rich, umami flavor to the dish, enhancing the overall taste profile. They also provide important nutrients like B vitamins and antioxidants.
• Broccoli: Broccoli adds a delightful crunch and a host of vitamins, including vitamin C and K, along with fiber and folate.
• Bell Peppers: These vibrant veggies add a sweet and slightly tangy flavor, along with a burst of color. They are rich in vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants.

This recipe not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a balanced meal packed with nutrients. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy a hearty, wholesome meal without compromising on flavor.

Tips and Tricks to Prepare

Preparing the perfect Baked Wheat Pasta With Mushrooms, Broccoli, and Bell Peppers can be a breeze with these handy tips and tricks:

• Pre-cooking the Pasta: Make sure to cook the pasta until it’s al dente. This ensures that it doesn’t become mushy when baked. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
• Vegetable Prep: Cut the vegetables into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Blanching the broccoli briefly before adding it to the dish can help retain its bright green color and crunch.
• Seasoning: Season the vegetables generously with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick to the dish.
• Cheese: Use a mix of cheeses for a richer flavor. Mozzarella adds a gooey texture, while Parmesan provides a sharp, tangy taste. For a healthier option, you can use reduced-fat cheese.
• Baking: Cover the dish with foil while baking to prevent the top from browning too quickly. Remove the foil towards the end of the baking time to achieve a golden, bubbly top.

These tips will help you achieve a well-balanced and flavorful baked pasta dish that everyone will love.

How to Make Baked Wheat Pasta With Mushrooms, Broccoli, and Bell Peppers

Ingredients

• Whole Wheat Pasta: 12 ounces
• Mushrooms: 1 cup, sliced
• Broccoli: 2 cups, cut into florets
• Bell Peppers: 1 cup, sliced (use a mix of red, yellow, and green for color)
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
• Onion: 1 small, chopped
• Tomato Sauce: 2 cups
• Mozzarella Cheese: 1 ½ cups, shredded
• Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, grated
• Salt: to taste
• Black Pepper: to taste
• Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon
• Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ teaspoon (optional)
• Fresh Basil: for garnish

Instructions to Cook

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat pasta and cook until al dente, according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing until fragrant and translucent. Add the sliced mushrooms, broccoli florets, and bell peppers. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
4. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sautéed vegetables, and tomato sauce. Season with salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes if using. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
5. Assemble the Dish: Transfer the pasta and vegetable mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
6. Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
7. Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Servings and Times

• Serves: 6-8 people
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 320 per serving
• Total Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 600mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 45g
• Dietary Fiber: 7g
• Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 15g

FAQs About Baked Wheat Pasta With Mushrooms, Broccoli, and Bell Peppers