For many vegetarians, pasta is the ultimate meat-free meal; it's quick to make, filling and practically guaranteed to please even the most demanding of meat lovers. But even though it's a tried-and-true staple, spaghetti with everyday tomato sauce can get tired quickly. When you're looking to dress up your usual pasta night routine, try incorporating fresh vegetables to take advantage of the season's bounty, and look for hearty add-ins that offer additional substance, like mushrooms. Food Network Magazine's Pasta with Corn and Kale is one such summertime supper featuring bright corn, vitamin-packed kale, and earthy shiitakes and creminis.

While freshly shucked corn promises subtle crunch and a vibrant color to the pasta (pictured above), much of the corn flavor comes from the noodles. They're boiled in water with the shucked cobs, and after they're drained, that water is used to form the base of the sauce. To cook the other vegetables, start by sauteing the mushrooms until they're golden brown and tender, then slowly wilting kale with garlic and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Before serving, stir in chopped scallions and a pat of butter for richness; mix in the noodles and the reserved pasta water to create a simple yet satisfying summer dinner.

Get the Recipe: Pasta with Corn and Kale from Food Network Magazine

Meatless Monday, an international movement, encourages people everywhere to cut meat one day a week for personal and planetary health. Browse more Meatless Monday recipes.