Mediterranean Herb Pasta with Sautéed Vegetables and Tomatoes
A vibrant pasta dish featuring tender spaghetti or linguine tossed with a rich herb-infused tomato sauce and sautéed vegetables including mushrooms, yellow squash, and zucchini. The sauce combines whole peeled tomatoes with aromatic garlic powder and Italian seasoning, simmered to develop deep flavors. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining, this colorful dish offers a satisfying blend of Mediterranean herbs and fresh vegetables that complement the pasta beautifully.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta such as spaghetti or linguine
- 1 can (28 oz) whole peeled tomatoes, drained and cut updiced tomatoes1:1texture
slightly different texture
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 tsp McCormick Gourmet™ Organic Garlic Powder
- ½ tsp McCormick Gourmet™ Organic Italian Seasoning
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 8 oz mushrooms, quartered
- 8 oz yellow squash, slicedbell peppers1:1flavor
adds different flavor profile
- 8 oz zucchini, sliced
- sugar(optional)
- grated Parmesan cheese(optional)
Instructions
- 1
Cook pasta according to package directions and drain well
- 2
Mix tomatoes, tomato sauce, garlic powder and Italian seasoning in medium saucepan
- 3
Bring mixture to boil on medium heat, then reduce to low and simmer covered for 20 minutes
- 4
Heat oil in large skillet on medium-high heat
- 5
Add mushrooms, squash and zucchini to skillet and cook stirring for 4 minutes until tender-crisp
- 6
Stir cooked vegetables into the tomato sauce
- 7
Place pasta in serving bowl and spoon vegetable mixture over pasta
- 8
Toss to coat and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if desired
Tips
Reserve some pasta cooking water to thin the sauce if needed for better coating
Cut vegetables into uniform sizes for even cooking and better presentation
Don't overcook the vegetables to maintain their vibrant color and slight crunch
Good to Know
Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days in airtight container
Sauce can be made 1 day ahead and reheated before serving
Serve immediately while hot with crusty bread and additional Parmesan
Common Mistakes
Don't overcook vegetables to avoid mushy texture
Add vegetables to sauce just before serving to maintain their texture
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
Gluten-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
slightly different texture
FAQ
Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
Yes, but thaw and drain them first, then reduce cooking time to 2-3 minutes to prevent overcooking.
What if I don't have Italian seasoning?
Mix equal parts dried basil, oregano, and thyme, or use 1 teaspoon total of any combination of these herbs.
How long will leftovers keep?
Store refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on stovetop with a splash of water if needed.