Masala Pasta Indian (Veg)

Masala Pasta Recipe | Indian Style Masala Pasta (Vegetarian)

Masala pasta is a delicious, quick, and easy Indian fusion pasta recipe, perfect for busy weeknights or wholesome family meals. It combines the robust flavors of Indian spices with the comforting goodness of pasta, creating a satisfying dish that’s sure to be loved by kids and adults alike. This vegetarian recipe is made with pantry staples, fresh vegetables, and simple seasonings, making it a great choice for lunch, dinner, or even a special brunch.

What is Masala Pasta?

Masala pasta is an Indo-Italian fusion dish where cooked pasta is tossed in a spiced onion-tomato masala. The masala, made with basic Indian spices, transforms the pasta with bold flavors, a hint of heat, and a vibrant color. This recipe can be customized based on the vegetables you have on hand, and you can adjust the spice level to suit your family’s preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

- Quick and easy: Gets ready in under 30 minutes.

- Flexible: Use any pasta and vegetables you have available.

- Kid-friendly: Mildly spiced and loaded with veggies.

- Vegetarian: No meat or eggs; can be made vegan by skipping cheese.

Ingredients

- Pasta: Any short pasta works—penne, fusilli, macaroni, or farfalle.

- Vegetables: Onion, tomatoes, bell peppers, carrots, peas, corn, or whatever is in your fridge.

- Spices: Ginger-garlic paste, turmeric, red chili powder, garam masala, black pepper, and optional kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves).

- Herbs: Fresh coriander (cilantro) and optionally, some Italian herbs for an extra layer of flavor.

- Sauce: Tomato sauce or puree to create a tangy base.

- Oil: Use any neutral oil or olive oil.

- Optional: Grated cheese for topping.

How to Make Masala Pasta – Step by Step

1. Cook Pasta: Boil water in a large pot, add salt, and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Drizzle with a little oil to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Masala: Heat oil in a pan. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden. Stir in ginger-garlic paste and fry for a minute until fragrant. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until soft and mushy.

3. Spice It Up: Sprinkle turmeric, red chili powder, black pepper, and garam masala. Sauté for a minute until the spices release their aroma.

4. Add Veggies: Toss in your choice of diced vegetables. Cook on medium heat until they are just tender but still crisp.

5. Make the Sauce: Pour in tomato sauce or puree. Mix well and cook for a few minutes until the sauce thickens. You can also add a splash of water if the masala looks too dry.

6. Combine Pasta and Masala: Add the cooked pasta to the pan. Toss everything together so the pasta is well coated with the masala and vegetables. Adjust salt and spice as needed.

7. Finish: Garnish with fresh coriander, a sprinkle of kasuri methi, or some Italian herbs. Add grated cheese if desired. Serve hot.

Expert Tips

- Do not overcook the pasta; keep it slightly firm so it doesn’t turn mushy.

- Use ripe, red tomatoes for a rich flavor and color.

- Adjust the amount of chili powder for a milder or spicier dish.

- For extra protein, add cooked chickpeas or paneer cubes.

- To make it vegan, skip the cheese or use plant-based cheese.

Serving Suggestions

Serve masala pasta hot as a standalone meal, or pair it with garlic bread or a simple salad for a more filling spread. It’s a great option for kids’ lunchboxes or as a quick dinner after a long day.

Variations

- Creamy Masala Pasta: Stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk at the end for a creamy texture.

- Cheese Masala Pasta: Top with mozzarella or cheddar for a gooey, cheesy finish.

- Vegan Masala Pasta: Use vegan cheese or skip cheese altogether.

- Protein Boost: Add tofu, paneer, or cooked legumes.

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover masala pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat with a splash of water on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta.

Can I use store-bought pasta sauce?

You can, but homemade tomato puree or sauce gives a fresher and more vibrant flavor.

Is this recipe spicy?

The spice level is mild to moderate. Adjust chili powder to your taste.

Can I add meat?

Yes, cooked shredded chicken or sautéed sausage can be added for a non-vegetarian version.

Final Thoughts

Masala pasta is a delightful and flavorful fusion recipe, perfect for anyone who loves both Indian and Italian cuisines. It’s easy to make, highly adaptable, and guaranteed to become a family favorite. Try it out with your favorite vegetables and spices, and enjoy a comforting meal any time!

Video Tutorial