Veggie Pasta Bake

Updated at: Thu, 17 Aug 2023 05:10:35 GMT

Step 1

Bring a large saucepan of water to the boil with ½ tsp salt for the pasta. Trim the courgette, then slice into thick 1cm rounds. Peel and grate the garlic (or use a garlic press). Grate the Cheddar cheese.

Step 2

Heat a large frying pan on high heat (no oil). When hot, add the courgette and cook until charred, 6-8 mins total. Turn only every couple of mins- this will result in the courgette picking up some nice colour. Once cooked, season with salt and pepper if you'd like, then transfer the courgette 'planets' to a bowl.

Step 3

Meanwhile, when your pan of water is boiling, add the rigatoni and bring back to the boil. Cook until tender, 12 mins. Once cooked, drain in a colander and pop back in the pan. Drizzle with oil and stir through to stop it sticking together.

Step 4

Once the courgette 'planets' have been set aside, wipe out the frying pan and pop back on medium heat with a drizzle of oil. Once hot, add the garlic and cook for 30 secs, then add the tomato passata, water for the sauce (see ingredients for amount), vegetable stock paste and ½ tsp sugar (if you'd like). Stir together, then bring to the boil and simmer until thickened, 4-5 mins. Stir in the creme fraiche and half the Cheddar, then simmer until melted and smooth, 2-3 mins. Taste and season with salt and pepper if you'd like.

Step 5

While the sauce simmers, preheat your grill to high. Chop half your courgette 'planets' into quarters, then stir into the creamy sauce along with the peas and cooked pasta. Add a splash of water if it's a little thick. Transfer your pasta to an ovenproof dish and top with the remaining courgette 'planets'. Sprinkle over the remaining Cheddar to make the stars of your galaxy! Grill until bubbling and golden, 3-4 mins.

Step 6

Meanwhile, put the balsamic vinegar in a bowl with a drizzle of oil. Season with salt and pepper if you'd like, then mix together. When ready, share your starry 'galaxy' pasta bake between bowls. Add the pea shoots to the balsamic dressing and toss to coat, then serve alongside.

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