vermicelli pasta recipe
- The Best vermicelli pasta recipe
- Garlic Butter Vermicelli Pasta with Vegetables
- 🥘Ingredients
- 👨🍳Directions
- 🔧Equipment
- 📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- 📝Notes
- Watch Video Of How Garlic Butter Vermicelli Pasta with Vegetables Works
- ❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Butter Vermicelli Pasta with Vegetables
The Best vermicelli pasta recipe
What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can toss it with a simple garlic and olive oil sauce, load it up with fresh veggies, or even make it a little heartier with some grilled chicken or shrimp. It’s also a great way to sneak in extra nutrients without anyone noticing—just add finely chopped spinach, bell peppers, or even some grated zucchini to the sauce. Plus, vermicelli cooks faster than thicker pastas, so it’s a lifesaver when I’m short on time. It’s one of those meals that feels light but still satisfying, and it’s become a staple in our house for good reason.
Garlic Butter Vermicelli Pasta with Vegetables
A quick and flavorful vermicelli pasta dish tossed in garlic butter sauce with colorful vegetables. Perfect for a light yet satisfying meal that comes together in under 30 minutes.
🥘Ingredients
- 8 oz (225g) vermicelli pasta
- 1 tbsp salt (for boiling water)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 small bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 small zucchini, julienned
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add 1 tbsp salt and 1 tbsp olive oil to the water. -
2
Add the vermicelli pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions (usually 5-7 minutes) until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/4 cup of pasta water. -
3
While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the butter and let it melt completely. -
4
Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. -
5
Add the sliced bell pepper and julienned zucchini to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften slightly but still retain some crunch. -
6
Stir in the cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 1 minute. -
7
Add the cooked vermicelli pasta to the skillet along with the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together gently to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce. -
8
Sprinkle with chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper. Toss again and taste for seasoning, adjusting if needed. -
9
Remove from heat and transfer to serving plates. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
🔧Equipment
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large skillet or pan
- Wooden spoon
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Garlic Butter Vermicelli Pasta with Vegetables Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Butter Vermicelli Pasta with Vegetables
1. What type of vermicelli pasta should I use for this recipe?
You can use either rice vermicelli (common in Asian cuisine) or wheat-based vermicelli (often used in Italian or Middle Eastern dishes). Rice vermicelli is gluten-free and cooks quickly, while wheat vermicelli has a slightly chewier texture. Choose based on your dietary needs and the flavor profile of your dish.
2. How do I prevent vermicelli from sticking together?
To avoid clumping, rinse the cooked vermicelli under cold water immediately after draining to stop the cooking process and remove excess starch. Toss it with a little oil or sauce before storing or serving. If using rice vermicelli, soaking it in hot water instead of boiling can also help prevent sticking.
3. Can I make vermicelli pasta ahead of time?
Yes! Cook the vermicelli al dente, rinse it under cold water, and toss it with a bit of oil to prevent drying. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat by briefly soaking in hot water or tossing in a pan with a splash of water or sauce.
4. What sauces pair best with vermicelli pasta?
Vermicelli works well with light, flavorful sauces. For rice vermicelli, try peanut sauce, soy-based dressings, or coconut curry. Wheat vermicelli pairs nicely with olive oil, garlic, lemon, pesto, or tomato-based sauces. It’s also great in stir-fries, soups, or cold salads.
5. Is vermicelli pasta gluten-free?
Only rice vermicelli is naturally gluten-free. Wheat-based vermicelli contains gluten, so if you need a gluten-free option, always check the label or opt for 100% rice vermicelli. Some brands also offer corn or mung bean-based alternatives.
