Herbed Veggie Pasta Skillet

Name: Herbed Veggie Pasta Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (any type); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup bell peppers, diced; 1 cup zucchini, sliced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup spinach; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love whipping up my Herbed Veggie Pasta Skillet on busy weeknights. This dish combines colorful vegetables with perfectly cooked pasta, all tossed in a light herb-infused olive oil that elevates the flavors beautifully. It’s a one-pan meal that not only saves time but also brings together a vibrant assortment of fresh produce. Every bite is a journey through the garden, making it a satisfying choice for both lunch and dinner. Plus, it’s super easy to customize with whatever veggies you have on hand!

Created by

Vivienne Cole

Last updated on 2026-01-18T03:43:13.856Z

When I first made this Herbed Veggie Pasta Skillet, I was surprised at how quickly everything came together. The secret is using fresh, seasonal vegetables that not only add flavor but also visual appeal. I found that blanching the veggies for just a minute makes them vibrant and tender, without losing their crunch.

As I experimented with different herb combinations, I discovered that a blend of basil, oregano, and thyme brings out the best in the dish. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil at the end ties everything together beautifully, creating a sauce that’s light yet flavorful.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Fresh, vibrant vegetables make every bite delightful
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Customization options to suit any taste preference

      

Perfect Pasta for Your Skillet

Choosing the right type of pasta for your Herbed Veggie Pasta Skillet can enhance its texture and overall experience. I recommend using a shape like penne or fusilli, as they hold onto the sauce and integrate well with the vegetables. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta works equally well for a healthier or dietary-restricted version. Remember to save a bit of pasta water after draining; a tablespoon or two can help loosen the dish if it looks too dry!

Cook the pasta just until al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when you combine it with the sautéed veggies. This prevents it from becoming mushy, ensuring a delightful bite. Keep an eye on the time, and taste-test a minute or two before the package suggests; you'll want the optimal texture in your final dish.

Vegetable Choices and Flavor Enhancements

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility with vegetables. While bell peppers and zucchini are fantastic, try adding seasonal veggies like asparagus or snap peas for a fresh twist. You can also use frozen vegetables in a pinch; just cook them a bit longer in the skillet to ensure they heat through properly. Aim for a vibrant mix of colors, which not only makes the dish visually appealing but also adds varying flavors and textures.

For added depth of flavor, consider incorporating a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes before serving. The acidity from the lemon balances the richness of the olive oil, while the heat from the pepper flakes gives a delightful kick. Always remember to taste and adjust the seasoning throughout the cooking process, as this is key to achieving a well-rounded dish.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for your Herbed Veggie Pasta Skillet:

Ingredients

8 oz pasta (any type)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup bell peppers, diced
1 cup zucchini, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup spinach
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)

Make sure to adjust the quantities based on your preference or what you have on hand!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Herbed Veggie Pasta Skillet:

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add bell peppers and zucchini, and cook for about 5 minutes until slightly softened.

Add Garlic and Tomatoes

Stir in the minced garlic and cherry tomatoes, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes are tender.

Mix in Remaining Ingredients

Add the spinach, cooked pasta, and herbs. Toss everything together, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Enjoy your colorful and flavorful meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute with any veggies you love or even add some protein such as chicken or chickpeas for a complete meal.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Herbed Veggie Pasta Skillet is a great candidate for meal prep. You can cook the pasta and sauté the veggies in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you're ready to eat, simply combine and warm them in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep everything moist and prevent sticking.

If you want to freeze this dish, I'd suggest freezing the sautéed vegetables alone, as pasta tends to become mushy when thawed. Freeze in single portions, and when you're ready to serve, defrost in the fridge overnight. Sauté fresh pasta on the stovetop and toss it with the reheated vegetables for a quick, home-cooked meal.

Serving Suggestions

While the Herbed Veggie Pasta Skillet is delicious on its own, consider pairing it with a light salad for a complete meal. A simple arugula and lemon vinaigrette salad can complement the rich flavors beautifully. You can also serve it alongside crusty bread to soak up any leftover oil and seasonings from the skillet, turning your meal into a hearty feast.

For a protein boost, you can toss in cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking. This not only enhances the dish's nutritional value but also makes it more filling. Top with freshly grated Parmesan or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast to add an extra layer of flavor that ties everything together perfectly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Absolutely! You can easily substitute gluten-free pasta in this recipe.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can include broccoli, asparagus, or any seasonal vegetables you prefer.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, just omit the parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative for a fully plant-based dish.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water.