Description
A colorful and comforting pasta dish made with caramelized roasted vegetables, garlic, olive oil, Parmesan cheese, and fresh basil. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or casual family dinners.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 yellow squash, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the zucchini, yellow squash, bell peppers, red onion, and cherry tomatoes on the baking sheet.
- Drizzle the vegetables with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Toss everything together until evenly coated.
- Roast the vegetables for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until tender and slightly caramelized.
- Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Combine the roasted vegetables and cooked pasta in a large bowl.
- Add a splash of reserved pasta water if a lighter sauce consistency is desired.
- Toss with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil before serving.
Notes
- Fresh vegetables roast better and develop more flavor than frozen vegetables.
- Penne and rotini work especially well because they hold onto the vegetables and cheese.
- For a vegan version, omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
- Spread vegetables in a single layer to avoid steaming and ensure caramelization.
- Roasted vegetables can be prepared ahead of time and stored separately until ready to combine with pasta.
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
- For a creamier sauce, stir in heavy cream or cream cheese before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 67g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 12mg
