Roasted Garlic Veggie Pasta
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
A delightful medley of roasted garlic and fresh vegetables tossed with pasta for a comforting meal.
This Roasted Garlic Veggie Pasta is the perfect dish for a cozy dinner. The rich flavor of roasted garlic combines beautifully with seasonal vegetables, creating a dish that's both satisfying and healthy.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The aromatic flavor of roasted garlic enhances every bite.
- A colorful array of vegetables makes this dish visually appealing.
- Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep for the week ahead.
A Perfect Balance of Flavors
The combination of roasted garlic and fresh vegetables creates a delightful balance of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Roasting the garlic transforms its pungent nature into a sweet, mellow flavor that complements the vibrant colors and textures of the vegetables. Each bite of pasta is infused with this aromatic goodness, making it not just a meal, but an experience.
Using seasonal vegetables adds freshness and nutrition to this dish. You can easily customize the recipe with whatever vegetables you have on hand, making it versatile for any time of year. The slight crunch of bell peppers and the tenderness of zucchini pair wonderfully, while the burst of sweetness from cherry tomatoes elevates the overall taste.
Meal Prep Made Easy
This Roasted Garlic Veggie Pasta is not only a delightful dinner option but also an excellent choice for meal prep. You can make a large batch and store it in individual portions for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. Simply reheat, and you have a satisfying meal ready in minutes.
To keep the pasta fresh, store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator. You can also prepare the roasted vegetables ahead of time and combine them with the pasta when you're ready to eat. This way, you can enjoy the robust flavors without spending much time in the kitchen during busy weekdays.
Tips for the Best Pasta
To ensure your pasta is cooked to perfection, always follow the package instructions for timing and salt. Cooking it al dente gives it a nice bite and helps it hold up better when tossed with the roasted vegetables. Remember to reserve a bit of pasta water before draining; this starchy liquid can help create a silky sauce when mixed with the roasted garlic and veggies.
If you want to enhance the dish further, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. These simple additions can elevate the flavor profile and make your Roasted Garlic Veggie Pasta even more delightful!
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 12 oz pasta of your choice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
For the Roasted Vegetables
- 1 head garlic
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup spinach
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Black pepper, to taste
For Garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves (optional)
Instructions
Roast the Garlic
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the top off the head of garlic, drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast for 30 minutes until soft.
Cook the Pasta
While the garlic is roasting, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add bell pepper, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until tender.
Combine and Serve
Once the garlic is roasted, squeeze the cloves into the skillet with vegetables. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together. Serve warm with optional grated Parmesan and fresh basil.
Pro Tips
- Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what's in season or what you have on hand. This dish is great for using up leftovers!
Serving Suggestions
This pasta dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. The lightness of the salad, with its crisp greens and tangy vinaigrette, complements the richness of the roasted garlic and vegetables. You may also add a side of garlic bread to enhance the garlicky flavors of the dish.
For a protein boost, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp to the pasta. These additions can turn the dish into a hearty entree, perfect for family gatherings or special occasions. Just sauté the protein separately and mix it in before serving.
Storage and Reheating Tips
To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it a practical dish for busy weeks. If you want to freeze it, portion it out and store it in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months.
When reheating, you can use a microwave or stovetop. If using the microwave, cover the dish to retain moisture. On the stovetop, add a splash of water to prevent the pasta from drying out. Heat gently until warmed through, and enjoy your delicious meal once again!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes, gluten-free pasta works well in this recipe.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Is this dish vegan?
Yes, this recipe is completely vegan if you omit the cheese.
→ Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas make great additions.
Roasted Garlic Veggie Pasta
A delightful medley of roasted garlic and fresh vegetables tossed with pasta for a comforting meal.
What You'll Need
For the Pasta
- 12 oz pasta of your choice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
For the Roasted Vegetables
- 1 head garlic
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup spinach
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Black pepper, to taste
For Garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves (optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the top off the head of garlic, drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast for 30 minutes until soft.
While the garlic is roasting, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add bell pepper, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until tender. Add spinach, oregano, and black pepper, stirring until spinach wilts.
Once the garlic is roasted, squeeze the cloves into the skillet with vegetables. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together. Serve warm with optional grated Parmesan and fresh basil.
Extra Tips
- Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what's in season or what you have on hand. This dish is great for using up leftovers!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 220mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 66g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 14g