Are you a meat-lover looking to mix things up, or a vegetarian seeking some inspiration for your next pasta dish? Look no further! Meatless spaghetti dishes can be just as flavorful and satisfying as their meat-filled counterparts, and we’re here to prove it. From creamy garlic parmesan to spicy arrabbiata, our list of 19 delicious recipes has something for every palate.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the world of plant-based pasta, featuring a variety of international flavors and ingredients. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and fresh or rich and indulgent, we’ve got you covered with our collection of mouth-watering spaghetti recipes.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and satisfying recipe that combines the flavors of garlic, parmesan, and a creamy sauce. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying a delicious meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (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, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to combine. If necessary, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired creaminess.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Arrabbiata Spaghetti
This spicy Italian-inspired dish is a twist on traditional spaghetti recipes, with a bold and zesty flavor profile that’s sure to delight. With its short cooking time and ease of preparation, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp red pepper flakes
– 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-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add crushed tomatoes, parsley, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let sauce simmer while spaghetti cooks.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti with tomato sauce. Toss to coat.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Cherry Tomato and Basil Spaghetti
Elevate your pasta game with this quick and flavorful recipe, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a cozy night in. Roasting cherry tomatoes brings out their natural sweetness, which pairs perfectly with the bright freshness of basil.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 lb cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss cherry tomatoes with garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
4. Combine roasted tomatoes, chopped basil, and reserved pasta water in a large bowl.
5. Add cooked spaghetti to the bowl and toss everything together.
6. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mushroom and Spinach Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
This recipe combines the savory flavors of mushrooms, spinach, and garlic with the simplicity of spaghetti aglio e olio. The result is a rich and satisfying dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and red pepper flakes 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-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add sliced mushrooms and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they release their moisture and start to brown.
4. Stir in fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti, mushroom-spinach mixture, and salt to taste.
6. Serve immediately, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Garlic Spaghetti with Broccoli
This recipe combines the simplicity of spaghetti with the bold flavors of lemon, garlic, and broccoli. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 1/4 cup)
– 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, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add broccoli to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender but still crisp.
4. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper.
5. Toss cooked spaghetti with the lemon-broccoli mixture.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Olive Spaghetti
This recipe combines the flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and Kalamata olives to create a delicious and savory spaghetti dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add cherry tomatoes, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Toss cooked spaghetti with the tomato and olive mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto and Pine Nut Spaghetti
This classic Italian dish is a flavorful twist on traditional spaghetti carbonara, with the added richness of pesto and toasted pine nuts. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup pine nuts
– 2 tablespoons 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 olive oil over medium-low heat. Add pine nuts and cook, stirring frequently, until lightly toasted (about 5 minutes).
3. Add pesto sauce to the skillet and stir to combine with pine nuts. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat with pesto mixture. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Walnut and Parsley Spaghetti
A classic Italian dish gets a twist with the addition of crunchy walnuts and fresh parsley. This simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped toasted walnuts
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp 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.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add chopped parsley and toasted walnuts to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Drain cooked spaghetti and add to the skillet. Toss everything together until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Butternut Squash and Sage Spaghetti
This recipe combines the comforting flavors of roasted butternut squash with the earthy goodness of sage, all wrapped up in a delicious spaghetti dish. It’s perfect for a cozy autumn or winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups spaghetti
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. Place the squash on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with garlic.
4. Roast for 45-50 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
5. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. In a large skillet, combine roasted squash, chopped sage, salt, and pepper.
7. Toss cooked spaghetti with the squash mixture.
8. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Zucchini and Mint Spaghetti
This vegetarian recipe combines the sweetness of zucchini with the brightness of mint, creating a light and flavorful dish perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 1 large zucchini
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Spiralize the zucchini into long strands, similar to spaghetti.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped mint and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
4. Add the zucchini “spaghetti” to the skillet, cooking for 3-5 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
5. Cook the regular spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and combine with the zucchini mixture.
6. Season with salt to taste. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Truffle Oil and Mushroom Spaghetti
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and earthy spaghetti dish, infused with the deep flavors of truffle oil and sautéed mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 tablespoons truffle oil
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (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 large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add sliced mushrooms and minced garlic. Cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5-6 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Stir in truffle oil. Combine cooked spaghetti and mushroom mixture, adding reserved pasta water if needed.
5. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Eggplant and Ricotta Spaghetti
This recipe combines the flavors of Italy with a twist on traditional spaghetti. Eggplant adds a meaty texture while ricotta cheese provides a creamy, rich sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss eggplant 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 roasted eggplant, garlic, and ricotta cheese. Stir until smooth.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti with the eggplant-ricotta sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Avocado and Lime Spaghetti
This creamy and zesty spaghetti dish is perfect for a light and satisfying meal. The combination of ripe avocados, tangy lime juice, and al dente pasta creates a unique and delicious flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (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. In a blender or food processor, combine diced avocado, lime juice, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Drain the cooked spaghetti and toss with the avocado mixture, Parmesan cheese, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Balsamic Spaghetti
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of caramelized onions with the tanginess of balsamic vinegar. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner or as a show-stopping main course.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
4. Stir in balsamic vinegar and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti and caramelized onion mixture. Toss to combine.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Capers and Artichoke Spaghetti
This recipe combines the brininess of capers with the tender sweetness of artichokes, all wrapped up in a delicious spaghetti dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 large artichoke hearts, canned or fresh
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp capers, rinsed and drained
– 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, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in artichoke hearts, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until artichokes are heated through.
5. Add capers to the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Combine cooked spaghetti with the artichoke mixture, adding some reserved pasta water if needed to achieve desired consistency.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper and Almond Spaghetti
This recipe combines the sweetness of roasted red peppers with the crunch of toasted almonds, creating a unique and flavorful twist on traditional spaghetti. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 large red bell peppers, roasted (see note)
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add roasted red peppers to the skillet and stir to combine with garlic and oil.
5. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to combine with pepper mixture.
6. Sprinkle toasted almonds and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Black Olive and Lemon Zest Spaghetti
This recipe combines the bold flavors of black olives with the brightness of lemon zest, creating a unique and delicious spaghetti dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1/4 cup pitted green black olives, sliced
– 2 lemons, zested
– 3 tbsp olive oil
– 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 of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add sliced black olives and cook for an additional 2 minutes until they release their flavor.
4. Stir in lemon zest and reserved pasta water. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti, olive mixture, and Parmesan cheese (if using). Toss everything together until well coated.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chickpea and Rosemary Spaghetti
This recipe combines the earthy sweetness of chickpeas with the piney flavor of rosemary, creating a unique and delicious spaghetti dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped rosemary and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently.
4. Drain the cooked spaghetti and add it to the pan with the rosemary mixture. Toss to combine.
5. Stir in the cooked chickpeas and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
White Wine and Garlic Spaghetti
This classic Italian recipe combines the brightness of white wine with the pungency of garlic, creating a flavorful sauce to coat al dente spaghetti.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (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 olive oil over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Pour in white wine and chicken broth. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until the liquid has reduced slightly.
4. Add reserved pasta water to the skillet, stirring to combine. Toss cooked spaghetti with garlic-wine sauce, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover 19 flavorful meatless spaghetti recipes that cater to every palate. From classic combinations like Creamy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti and Mushroom and Spinach Spaghetti Aglio e Olio, to innovative twists such as Lemon Garlic Spaghetti with Broccoli and Avocado and Lime Spaghetti, there’s something for everyone. Explore the world of vegetarian pasta dishes with recipes featuring sun-dried tomatoes, roasted cherry tomatoes, truffle oil, and more. Whether you’re a meat-lover looking for a plant-based alternative or a dedicated veggie, these mouthwatering spaghetti recipes are sure to delight.