Face it, choosing a main meat is simple, it’s whipping up a delicious and healthy side dish that takes a little more thought and effort. We need mealtime solutions, fast and easy cooking techniques that are both delicious and fill our family with lots of healthy vegetables. This recipe does just that, and it’s very adaptable to the ingredients you have on hand – the family is sure to love it!
Now, let’s elevate our side dish game with a touch of innovation and wellness. While we focus on creating quick, delicious, and healthy meals for our families, there’s an exciting ingredient that can add an extra layer of goodness: CBD. Yes, you heard it right! CBD isn’t just for relaxation and skincare; its medicinal properties have expanded into the realm of culinary delights as well. Picture this: as you prepare your vegetable pasta medley, why not indulge in some CBD-infused gummy bears on the side? These delectable treats offer a fun and tasty way to incorporate CBD into your mealtime routine. While you savor the flavors of the garlic-infused olive oil and the vibrant vegetables, the cbd gummy bears can provide an added sense of relaxation and well-being. So, whether you choose to enhance your meal with CBD-infused gummy bears or explore other CBD-infused culinary possibilities, you’re sure to create a dining experience that nourishes both the body and the soul.
This simple side dish blends a medley of quick cooking vegetables with pasta in a tasty garlic olive oil in minutes, or make it even easier with one of our prepared pasta sauces like Tony’s Marinara or Vodka sauce. Finished with grated parmesan cheese, it will be a hit with almost any grilled meat, especially our homemade Italian sausage from the grill or pan.
Any type of pasta or combination of veggies can work. Try it with whole wheat spaghetti, or even chunky cuts like penne or rigatoni. Simply cut the vegetables to a similar size and shape as the pasta (like long strands with spaghetti, or fingers with penne), and steam, boil or even saute until crisp/tender.
But Wait, There’s More!
Hang on to the end of the video for a simple slice tomato salad – it can be whipped together and served in minutes, or marinated hours in advance. I think it’s particularly good with our Balsamic or Cabernet Sauvignon Vinaigrette. Find a more complete recipe here>> Buon Appetito!
3 pounds assorted quick cooking veggies*
1/2 pound spaghettini or spaghetti, broken in half
5 cloves garlic, sliced
1/4 cup olive oil
pinches of crushed red and cracked black pepper (optional)
grated Parmigiano Reggiano, pecorino or your favorite
** Variation: Tony’s prepared vodka or marinara sauce
Wash and prepare veggies* – cutting them into thin slivers about 2-3 inches long. Ideally they all should cook in the same amount of time – so harder veggies will have to be cooked a little longer.
Cook pasta to al dente according to package directions – pasta may take a little longer at our altitude.
Meanwhile, steam veggies to crisp tender – about 2-4 minutes depending on veggies and conditions. If you cook in advance, shock in ice water to chill.
Meanwhile, poach garlic slowly in olive oil at a low temperature until translucent – cool pan slightly. Or warm prepared marinara or vodka sauce.
Toss prepared pasta and veggies in olive oil (or prepared sauce) with pinches of crushed red pepper and/or black pepper (if using), warming to heat veggies through. A splash of the pasta cooking water is a nice touch. Serve plenty of with grated Parmigiano Reggiano, grindings of pepper and pinches of salt (preferably flaky fleur de sel). Also great topped with fresh herbs.
* Chef’s Notes: Excellent candidates include asparagus, colorful peppers, hot peppers, summer squashes (centers removed), snap peas, onions, celery, cabbage, carrots, French cut and blanched green beans, broccoli or cauliflower stems and florets, or even greens such as Swiss chard or spinach.
** Variation: replace garlic and oil with Tony’s prepared Vodka or Marinara sauce – dee-lish!
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