When it comes to pasta, there’s no denying the classic comfort of a hearty meat-based sauce. However, for those looking to mix things up or cater to plant-based diets, a flavorful and satisfying meatless option is just as delicious – if not more so! In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 mouth-watering meatless spaghetti recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. From creamy avocado and spinach sauces to spicy arrabbiata dishes, there’s something for everyone on this list.
In the following pages, we’ll delve into the world of meatless spaghetti and discover the endless possibilities when it comes to pasta. Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or simply looking to spice up your meal routine, these 18 recipes are sure to inspire your next culinary creation.
Garlic and Olive Oil Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
A classic Italian recipe that showcases the simplicity and flavor of garlic, olive oil, and spaghetti.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 4-6 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
– 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
3. Add the thinly sliced garlic to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown and fragrant.
4. Remove the garlic from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside.
5. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the remaining oil and toss to combine.
6. Return the garlic to the pasta and toss to combine.
7. Season with salt to taste, then serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Avocado and Spinach Spaghetti
This recipe combines the creaminess of avocado with the nutty flavor of spinach, all wrapped up in a delicious spaghetti dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 bunch fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, sauté garlic until fragrant. Add spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 3 minutes.
3. Add diced avocado to the skillet and stir until combined with spinach mixture.
4. Pour in heavy cream and stir until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing until coated in the creamy avocado-spinach sauce. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top (if using).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Arrabbiata Spaghetti with Fresh Basil
A classic Italian pasta dish gets a spicy kick with this simple and flavorful recipe.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1/2 cup arrabbiata sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add arrabbiata sauce and red pepper flakes to the saucepan. Stir well to combine. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining spaghetti. Add the reserved water to the saucepan with the arrabbiata sauce. Stir to combine.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti and arrabbiata sauce in a large serving bowl. Toss well to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Cherry Tomato and Garlic Spaghetti
A flavorful and vibrant twist on classic spaghetti, this recipe combines sweet roasted cherry tomatoes with aromatic garlic and al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook spaghetti in boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
4. In a large skillet, sauté garlic over medium heat until fragrant (1 minute).
5. Add roasted tomatoes to the skillet and stir to combine with garlic.
6. Combine cooked spaghetti with tomato-garlic mixture. If needed, add reserved pasta water to create desired consistency.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon and Herb Spaghetti with Toasted Pine Nuts
Brighten up your pasta dish with the zest of lemon and the freshness of herbs, paired with the crunch of toasted pine nuts. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tbsp chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts (see note)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add lemon juice, parsley, and basil to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat with the lemon mixture.
5. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Toast pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes or until fragrant.
7. Serve spaghetti topped with toasted pine nuts and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mushroom and Thyme Spaghetti in White Wine Sauce
A rich and savory pasta dish that combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms, thyme, and white wine with a hint of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown (5-7 minutes).
4. Pour in white wine and chicken broth. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Stir in thyme and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat with the mushroom sauce. If too thick, add some reserved pasta water.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Artichoke Spaghetti
Sun-Dried Tomato and Artichoke Spaghetti Recipe
Savor the rich flavors of Italy with this easy-to-make Sun-Dried Tomato and Artichoke Spaghetti dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 cups sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 cup artichoke hearts, canned or fresh
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat with the tomato-artichoke mixture.
5. If using, sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top of the pasta. Toss to combine.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional sun-dried tomatoes if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto Spaghetti with Roasted Zucchini
This Pesto Spaghetti with Roasted Zucchini is a refreshing take on the traditional spaghetti dish. The combination of creamy pesto, perfectly cooked pasta, and sweet roasted zucchini creates a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss zucchini slices with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, combine pesto and cooked spaghetti. Toss until well coated.
5. To assemble the dish, place cooked spaghetti on a plate, top with roasted zucchini, and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Spaghetti: 8-10 minutes
– Zucchini: 20-25 minutes
– Total cooking time: 30-35 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Balsamic Spaghetti
A sweet and savory twist on classic spaghetti, this dish combines the natural sweetness of caramelized onions with the tanginess of balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
3. Remove the onions from the skillet and set aside. Increase heat to medium-high and add balsamic vinegar. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly reduced.
4. Combine cooked spaghetti, caramelized onions, and balsamic glaze in a large serving bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spaghetti with Roasted Red Pepper and Almond Sauce
Spaghetti with Roasted Red Pepper and Almond Sauce Recipe
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Elevate your pasta game with this vibrant, flavorful dish featuring roasted red peppers and a creamy almond sauce.
Ingredients:
—————
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 1/4 cup almonds
– 3 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
————–
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast the red peppers: Place peppers on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until charred.
3. Peel roasted peppers and place in blender or food processor. Add garlic, almonds, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
4. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Toss cooked spaghetti with almond sauce and top with chopped parsley (if using).
Cooking Time:
————–
– Roasting peppers: 30-40 minutes
– Cooking spaghetti: 8-10 minutes
– Total time: approximately 45-50 minutes
Black Olive and Caper Spaghetti
This Mediterranean-inspired dish combines the rich flavors of black olives and capers with al dente spaghetti, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1/2 cup pitted black olives, sliced
– 2 tbsp capers, rinsed and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
3. Add sliced black olives and chopped capers to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld together.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to combine with the olive-caper mixture. If needed, add some reserved pasta cooking water to achieve desired consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spaghetti with Creamy Butternut Squash Sauce
A comforting twist on classic spaghetti, this recipe adds a rich and creamy butternut squash sauce to elevate the dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss squash cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large saucepan, sauté onion and garlic over medium heat until softened.
4. Add roasted squash to the saucepan and puree using an immersion blender or a regular blender.
5. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Combine with creamy butternut squash sauce.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Crispy Sage
Transform a classic spaghetti dish into a rich and aromatic masterpiece by adding crispy sage leaves to the mix.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 4 tbsp (55g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup (30g) chopped fresh sage leaves
– Salt, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a small saucepan, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Remove the garlic butter from heat and stir in remaining 2 tbsp of softened butter until smooth.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the garlic butter and toss until well coated.
5. Heat a small skillet over high heat. Add sage leaves and cook, stirring frequently, until crispy and golden brown (about 1-2 minutes per side).
6. Serve spaghetti with crispy sage leaves sprinkled on top. If desired, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Spaghetti with Fresh Tomato and Basil Sauce
This classic Italian dish is elevated with the simplicity of a fresh tomato and basil sauce, made with just a few ingredients. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium skillet, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add diced tomatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes or until they release their juices and start to break down.
4. Stir in chopped basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti, tomato-basil sauce, and reserved pasta water (if needed). Toss to combine.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Peanut Butter and Soy Sauce Spaghetti
A unique twist on traditional pasta dishes, this recipe combines the creamy richness of peanut butter with the savory depth of soy sauce, all wrapped up in a spicy kick. Perfect for adventurous eaters looking to mix things up.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 tbsp peanut butter
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sriracha sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Cooking oil or butter, for serving
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, and sriracha sauce. Whisk until smooth over medium heat.
3. Add the reserved pasta water to the peanut butter mixture and whisk until well combined.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat with the peanut butter mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spaghetti with Lemon Ricotta and Asparagus
This refreshing pasta dish combines the richness of ricotta cheese, the brightness of lemon zest, and the tender crunch of asparagus to create a truly unique and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tsp grated lemon zest
– 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add asparagus and cook for 4-5 minutes or until tender but still crisp.
4. Combine cooked spaghetti, asparagus, and ricotta mixture in the reserved pasta water. Toss gently to combine.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional lemon zest if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Roasted Eggplant and Tahini Spaghetti
Roasted Eggplant and Tahini Spaghetti: A Mediterranean Twist on Classic Pasta
This recipe combines the rich flavors of roasted eggplant, creamy tahini sauce, and al dente spaghetti for a unique and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss eggplant slices with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and lightly browned.
3. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
4. In a blender or food processor, combine tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and 2 tbsp reserved pasta water. Blend until smooth and creamy.
5. Toss cooked spaghetti with roasted eggplant, tahini sauce, and remaining 1 tbsp olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spaghetti with Carrot Top Pesto and Walnuts
A creative twist on traditional pasta dishes, this recipe combines the sweetness of carrots with the earthiness of walnuts for a unique flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 cup carrot tops (leaves and stems), chopped
– 1/4 cup walnuts, toasted
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Olive oil, for cooking
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a food processor, combine carrot tops, garlic, and walnuts. Process until smooth, scraping down sides as needed.
3. With the processor running, slowly add Parmesan cheese through the top. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Drain cooked spaghetti and toss with pesto sauce. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Looking for delicious meatless spaghetti recipes? Look no further! This article features 18 flavorful options to suit every palate. From classic Aglio e Olio with garlic and olive oil, to creamy Avocado and Spinach, Spicy Arrabbiata with fresh basil, and many more unique combinations, there’s something for everyone. Discover how to elevate your spaghetti game with roasted cherry tomatoes, lemon and herb, mushroom and thyme, and other exciting flavors. With a wide range of ingredients and cooking methods, you’ll find inspiration for a meatless meal that will satisfy your taste buds.
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