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Hidden Veggie Pasta Bake: A Wholesome Family Favorite

A delicious Hidden Veggie Pasta Bake with tomatoes, courgette, carrot, and melted cheese, perfect for family meals.

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A delicious Hidden Veggie Pasta Bake with tomatoes, courgette, carrot, and melted cheese, perfect for family meals.

This Hidden Veggie Pasta Bake combines the comfort of a classic pasta dish with the goodness of hidden vegetables, making it a quick and healthy meal option for busy families. With slow-roasted tomatoes forming the base, the pasta is enriched with grated courgette and carrot, which meld seamlessly into the sauce, providing both nutrition and flavor. Topped with gooey cheese, this dish appeals to both kids and adults alike, ensuring that everyone gathers around the dinner table for a satisfying meal. As a bonus, the preparation can be done in advance, making it a great option for meal prepping during the week.

The benefits of this Hidden Veggie Pasta Bake go beyond its delicious taste. By incorporating vegetables like courgette and carrots, you’re enhancing the dish with essential vitamins and minerals while keeping the calorie count lower than traditional pasta bakes. This recipe is an excellent way to sneak in those servings of vegetables, especially for picky eaters who may be resistant to eating greens. The use of whole-wheat pasta can also provide additional fiber, making this dish heart-healthy and suitable for those keen on maintaining a balanced diet.

This pasta bake is versatile enough to be enjoyed on various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, preparing food for a potluck, or simply looking to satisfy your weeknight cravings, this recipe fits the bill. It’s also ideal for meal prep, as it can be made in larger quantities and stored in the fridge or freezer for later use. You can enjoy it fresh from the oven, or reheat it for a quick lunch or dinner during busy days.

A delicious Hidden Veggie Pasta Bake with tomatoes, courgette, carrot, and melted cheese, perfect for family meals.

Hidden Veggie Pasta Bake: A Wholesome Family Favorite

Recipe by Daniel Cruz

Difficulty

Beginner

Servings

4 servings

Prep time

15 Mins

Cooking time

30 Mins

Ingredients

  • 400g whole-wheat pasta
  • 500g ripe tomatoes
  • 1 medium courgette, grated
  • 1 carrot, grated
  • 400g pasta sauce of choice
  • 200g mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
  2. Prepare the slow-roasted tomatoes by cutting some ripe tomatoes in half, drizzling with olive oil, and seasoning with salt and pepper. Roast them on a baking tray for about 30 minutes until soft.
  3. Cook the whole-wheat pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine the roasted tomatoes, grated courgette, and grated carrot, then mix in your choice of pasta sauce.
  5. Layer half of the pasta in a baking dish, top with half the veggie sauce mixture, and sprinkle with cheese.
  6. Add the remaining pasta and top with the rest of the sauce. Finish with more cheese for that gooey topping.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  8. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.

Nutrition Facts

Calories

400

Carbs

58

Protein

16

Fats

12