Pasta with Canned Tomato Sauce and Veggies

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A simple, budget-conscious pasta dish using canned tomatoes, frozen vegetables, and pantry staples for a comforting meal. This italian-inspired vegetarian (vegetarian) ready in about 30 minutes blends pasta (whole wheat), canned tomato sauce, thawed frozen mixed vegetables into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 300 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

★ 3.4 (10 ratings) Prep: 15 min Cook: 15 min Serves 4 Italian cuisine 300 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz whole wheat pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water.
  2. Step 2: In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in 2 cups canned tomato sauce, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  3. Step 3: Add 1 cup thawed frozen mixed vegetables to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until heated through. If the sauce is too thick, stir in 2-3 tbsp reserved pasta water to loosen it.
  4. Step 4: Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, stirring to coat evenly with the sauce. Divide among plates, top with 2 tbsp grated parmesan cheese, and serve immediately.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Pasta with Canned Tomato Sauce and Veggies take to make?

Total time is about 30 minutes (15 min prep + 15 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Pasta with Canned Tomato Sauce and Veggies?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Pasta with Canned Tomato Sauce and Veggies?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Pasta with Canned Tomato Sauce and Veggies for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Pasta with Canned Tomato Sauce and Veggies vegetarian?

Yes — this recipe is tagged vegetarian based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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