Pixicook

50 Best Vegetarian Pasta Recipes

Pasta is a versatile canvas for a plethora of vegetarian flavors and ingredients. This collection of vegetarian pasta recipes showcases dishes that are not only meat-free but are also bursting with fresh vegetables, rich cheeses, and unique, robust pestos. From the simplicity of cacio e pepe to the creative twists of pasta with walnut or sweet pea and feta pesto, each recipe is a testament to the fact that vegetarian pasta can be just as satisfying and diverse as their meat-containing counterparts.

recipe-image

1. Cacio e Pepe

Cacio e Pepe is a fundamental Roman pasta, which true to its origins is surprisingly delicious given its simplicity.

See Recipe
recipe-image

2. Pasta with Pesto Genovese

Embrace the traditional flavors of Italy with this vibrant Pasta with Pesto Genovese recipe. Delicate pieces of pasta are coated in a fresh, aromatic pesto, made from basil, pine nuts, and a mix of Parmesan and Pecorino Romano cheeses. This is a dish that truly sings of Italian summer, no matter the season.

See Recipe
recipe-image

3. Pasta with Sweet Pea and Feta Pesto

The sweet peas give the pesto a light, refreshing sweetness that pairs beautifully with the tangy feta cheese. The addition of parsley brings an aromatic freshness that ties it all together.

See Recipe
recipe-image

4. Penne with Edamame and Miso Pesto

This delightful Pasta with Edamame and Miso Pesto offers a unique twist on the traditional Italian pesto, introducing some East Asian flair. Sweet, nutty edamame beans are combined with umami-rich miso and a hint of garlic to create a vibrant, creamy pesto that pairs perfectly with your favorite pasta. It's a refreshing, easy-to-prepare dish that brings a splash of color and a whole lot of flavor to your table.

See Recipe
recipe-image

5. Pasta with Swiss Chard and Roasted Garlic Pesto

Embrace the vibrant flavors of Italian cuisine with this exceptional pasta dish. Our Pasta with Swiss Chard, Basil and Roasted Garlic Pesto features pasta, perfectly paired with a robust, aromatic pesto. The incorporation of leafy Swiss chard and fragrant basil brings an exciting twist to your traditional pasta night.

See Recipe
recipe-image

6. Sun-dried Tomato Pesto Pasta

Here's a lovely pasta dish that brings a burst of flavor to the table without too much fuss. This sun-dried tomato pesto pasta is a comforting, satisfying meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special evening with someone dear.

See Recipe
recipe-image

7. Pasta with Walnut Pesto

This pasta with Walnut Pesto recipe offers a delightful twist on the classic pesto pasta. Nutty, aromatic, and brimming with flavor, this dish is easy to make and perfect for a cozy dinner for two.

See Recipe
recipe-image

8. Penne with Vodka Sauce

This indulgent pasta dish features a rich and creamy tomato sauce with a hint of Calabrian chili heat. Tomato, cream, and Parmesan cheese create a luxurious and velvety sauce that perfectly coats your pasta of choice.

See Recipe
recipe-image

9. Pasta with Broccoli Pesto

Dive into the fresh, vibrant flavors of this Pasta with Broccoli Pesto. This dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special meal, combines the comforting, chewy texture of al dente pasta with a bright, homemade broccoli pesto. With a finishing touch of lemon zest, it's a plate full of color, flavor, and joy. This recipe is also a great way to incorporate a hidden serving of vegetables into a meal for kids.

See Recipe
recipe-image

10. Pasta with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Comfort food gets an elegant makeover in this recipe for Pasta with Creamy Mushroom Sauce. The robust, earthy flavors of mixed mushrooms are elevated by a rich cream sauce and delicate aromatics, creating a hearty and satisfying dish that's perfect for a cozy evening at home.

See Recipe
recipe-image

11. Fettuccine Alfredo

Creamy, cheesy, rich, and oh-so comforting. Fettuccine Alfredo is a perfect meal for those cozy nights in, when you're in the mood for some serious pasta love.

See Recipe
recipe-image

12. Rigatoni alla Norma

Rigatoni alla Norma is a classic Sicilian pasta dish that incorporates rigatoni pasta, rich tomato sauce, sautéed eggplant, and a garnish of grated Ricotta Salata cheese. With its fresh flavors and hearty ingredients, it's a perfect dish for both weekday meals and special occasions.

See Recipe
recipe-image

13. Sun-dried Tomato and Artichoke Pasta

Bursting with bright, Mediterranean flavors, this olive oil-based pasta marries tangy sun-dried tomatoes with tender artichokes, fragrant garlic, spicy Calabrian chili, and fresh basil.

See Recipe
recipe-image

14. Pasta with Fresh Tomato Sauce

This recipe features a refreshing pasta dish using fusilli and a vibrant sauce made from fresh tomatoes. The tomato sauce is prepared by blending raw tomatoes with olive oil and grated garlic, enhancing the natural sweetness of the tomatoes while adding a flavorful kick.

See Recipe
recipe-image

15. Pasta Pomodoro

Spaghetti in a bright tomato sauce with garlic, olive oil, basil, and cheese. Spaghetti Pomodoro stands as a classic example of Italy's love for uncomplicated yet flavorful pasta dishes.

See Recipe
recipe-image

16. Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a classic Italian dish that combines simple ingredients to create a flavorful, satisfying meal. Featuring a light sauce made from olive oil, garlic, and Calabrian chilis, this pasta dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy date night at home. The vibrant flavor of the parsley and the touch of saltiness from Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese really brings the dish together.

See Recipe
recipe-image

17. Rigatoni Pomodoro with Roasted Garlic and Swiss Chard

This is a classic Italian pasta dish, infused with the sweet and smoky flavor of roasted garlic and the earthy taste of swiss chard. The rich tomato sauce is spiced with Calabrian chili and topped with two types of microplaned cheese for an extra creamy finish.

See Recipe
recipe-image

18. Crisp Gnocchi With Brussels Sprouts and Brown Butter

A delightful combination of textures and flavors, featuring crispy gnocchi and caramelized brussels sprouts with a touch of lemon.

See Recipe
recipe-image

19. Classic Plum Delight Torte

A timeless treat combining buttery cake and luscious plums, perfect for any occasion.

See Recipe
recipe-image

20. Lemon Ricotta Gemelli Delight

A creamy and tangy pasta dish featuring gemelli, ricotta, Parmesan, and a burst of lemon.

See Recipe
recipe-image

21. Classic Sharp Cheddar Mac & Cheese

A rich and creamy mac and cheese made with sharp Cheddar, cottage cheese, and a hint of spices.

See Recipe
recipe-image

22. Miso-Infused Parmesan Pasta

A creamy and umami-rich pasta dish infused with miso and Parmesan cheese, garnished with seaweed for an extra layer of flavor.

See Recipe
recipe-image

23. Lemon-Infused Orzo with Spinach, Feta, and Herbs

A vibrant and flavorful dish featuring orzo infused with lemon, combined with spinach, feta, and fresh herbs.

See Recipe
recipe-image

24. Zesty Zucchini and Ricotta Pasta Toss

A creamy and flavorful pasta dish featuring tender zucchini, ricotta, and a hint of lemon zest.

See Recipe
recipe-image

25. Creamy Corn Pasta

A delightful and comforting pasta dish with a creamy corn sauce, scallions, Parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs.

See Recipe
recipe-image

26. Ricotta Gnocchi Simplicity

A simple and delicious homemade ricotta gnocchi recipe with marinara sauce, perfect for a comforting meal.

See Recipe
recipe-image

27. Creamy Tomato Vodka Penne

A rich and creamy pasta dish featuring a tomato vodka sauce with penne, finished with Parmigiano-Reggiano.

See Recipe
recipe-image

28. 3-Ingredient Stovetop Mac and Cheese Recipe

A quick and easy mac and cheese recipe made with just three ingredients: elbow macaroni, evaporated milk, and cheddar cheese.

See Recipe
recipe-image

29. Creamy Stovetop Cheddar Macaroni

A rich, creamy macaroni and cheese made with a combination of extra-sharp cheddar and American cheese for a luscious, smooth sauce.

See Recipe
recipe-image

30. Sicilian-Style Square Pizza Dough

A classic Sicilian-style pizza dough recipe that results in a thick, airy crust perfect for topping with your favorite ingredients.

See Recipe
recipe-image

31. Classic Handcrafted Pasta

A traditional recipe for making homemade pasta from scratch, resulting in tender and flavorful noodles.

See Recipe
recipe-image

32. Garlic-Infused Pasta with Sun-Kissed Tomatoes and Olive Crunch

A delicious pasta dish featuring garlic-infused oil, slow-roasted tomatoes, and a delightful olive crunch.

See Recipe
recipe-image

33. Classic Spaghetti Cacio e Pepe

A simple yet luxurious Italian pasta dish highlighting the rich flavors of Pecorino Romano and black pepper.

See Recipe
recipe-image

34. Creamy Parmesan Fettuccine

A rich and creamy pasta dish featuring fettuccine noodles tossed in a Parmesan cheese sauce with a hint of garlic and lemon zest.

See Recipe
recipe-image

35. Almond Essence Cake with Chocolate Buttercream

A delightful almond-flavored cake with a rich chocolate buttercream frosting.

See Recipe
recipe-image

36. Creamy Mushroom Medley Pasta

A rich and creamy pasta dish featuring a medley of mixed mushrooms, enhanced with Parmigiano-Reggiano and fresh herbs.

See Recipe
recipe-image

37. Butternut Squash Orecchiette with Sage Brown Butter

A delicious pasta dish featuring caramelized butternut squash, aromatic sage brown butter, and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese.

See Recipe
recipe-image

38. Creamy Ricotta Gnudi with Crispy Sage in Brown Butter

Delicate and creamy ricotta gnudi served with crispy sage leaves in a nutty brown butter sauce.

See Recipe
recipe-image

39. Classic Neapolitan-Style Pizza at Home

A traditional Neapolitan-style pizza made with a simple yet flavorful dough, fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, olive oil, and basil.

See Recipe
recipe-image

40. Vanilla Dream Butter Cake

A rich and fluffy vanilla butter cake perfect for any special occasion.

See Recipe
recipe-image

41. Mushroom and Herb Bolognese over Pasta

A comforting and flavorful Mushroom and Herb Bolognese that pairs beautifully with pasta. This recipe brings together the earthiness of mushrooms with the richness of red wine and herbs, creating a dish that's hearty and satisfying.

See Recipe
recipe-image

42. Vanilla-Infused Brown Butter Cake

A rich and flavorful cake made with browned butter and infused with vanilla, perfect for special occasions.

See Recipe
recipe-image

43. Autumn Harvest Squash and Apple Lasagna

A comforting and delicious lasagna made with roasted squash, apples, and Gruyère cheese, perfect for the autumn season.

See Recipe
recipe-image

44. Earthy Lentil Ragù with Pappardelle

A hearty and flavorful lentil ragù served over pappardelle pasta.

See Recipe
recipe-image

45. Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Pasta Shells

A hearty and delicious pasta dish stuffed with creamy ricotta and tender greens, topped with melted mozzarella and Parmigiano-Reggiano.

See Recipe
recipe-image

46. Lemon-Herb Orzo with Asparagus and Crispy Garlic Breadcrumbs

A light and refreshing orzo dish with asparagus, lemon, fresh herbs, and crispy garlic breadcrumbs.

See Recipe
recipe-image

47. Hearty Tomato and Cheese Baked Pasta

A comforting and hearty baked pasta dish with a rich tomato sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella cheese.

See Recipe
recipe-image

48. Garlic-Infused Spaghetti with Crispy Fried Eggs

A simple yet delicious pasta dish featuring garlic-infused olive oil and crispy fried eggs.

See Recipe
recipe-image

49. Spicy Spinach Fettuccine Alfredo

A creamy and spicy twist on the classic fettuccine alfredo, enhanced with chile crisp and fresh baby spinach.

See Recipe
recipe-image

50. Classic Spinach and Cheese Lasagna

A traditional lasagna recipe featuring layers of spinach, cheese, béchamel sauce, and tomato sauce between tender sheets of pasta.

See Recipe

Cooking Tips for Vegetarian Pasta Recipes

What's the best way to cook pasta to perfection?

To achieve the perfect al dente texture, boil the pasta in salted water until it is just tender but still has a slight bite to it. Always refer to the package instructions for specific cooking times.

How can I prevent my pasta from sticking together?

To prevent pasta from sticking, stir it occasionally during cooking and make sure to use a sufficient amount of water. Adding a splash of olive oil to the water or tossing the drained pasta with a bit of oil can also help.

Can I make pesto ahead of time?

Yes, pesto can be made ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator with a layer of olive oil on top to preserve its color and freshness for up to a week.

How do I choose the right type of pasta for my sauce?

Pairing pasta and sauce is about balance. Delicate sauces work best with thin, fine pasta like angel hair, while thicker, chunkier sauces pair well with broader pastas like fettuccine or shapes that can hold the sauce, such as shells or penne.

What are some tips for making creamy pasta sauces without cream?

For a lighter alternative to cream, you can use puréed white beans, silken tofu, or even a bit of the pasta's starchy cooking water to add creaminess to your pasta sauces.