There is something truly special about a comforting bowl of pasta. It is even better when it is brimming with roasted veggies and a rich Garlic Tomato Sauce. The tender noodles and vibrant Vegetables create a harmony of flavors.
This dish is not just satisfying. It is deeply comforting. It is a symphony of textures that dances in your mouth. Every bite feels like a little celebration at the dining table.
I often find myself whipping this dish up on chilled evenings. It is perfect when I crave something warm and cozy. You know those nights when you want good food fast? This is it.
This pasta comes together surprisingly fast. It is perfect for busy weeknights. You can indulge without spending hours in the kitchen. We all love Easy Dinner Recipes like that.
You can customize it to your heart’s content too. Add or swap Vegetables based on what is in season. You can also use what you have in your fridge right now.
Trust me on this one. The leftovers are just as delightful. This makes it a fabulous option for meal prep. You will thank yourself later in the week.
Jump To:
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It is hard not to love this pasta dish. It hits that sweet spot of being incredibly easy and undeniably delicious. We all need more Healthy Meals that taste this good.
The charred edges of the Roasted Vegetables meld perfectly with the sauce. The sweet and garlicky tomato flavors elevate the humble pasta. It turns a simple meal into an indulgent experience.
It is a true winner at my table. Whether it is a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish always garners compliments. People think you spent all day cooking.
Here is the thing about roasting. It brings out the natural sugars in the Vegetables. This creates a depth of flavor that boiling or steaming just cannot match.
This recipe is also naturally friendly for many diets. It can easily be a Vegan Pasta if you skip the cheese. It is flexible enough to suit everyone at the table.
Cleanup is a breeze as well. You do most of the work on a single baking sheet. Less time washing dishes means more time enjoying your evening.
Finally, it is budget friendly. You do not need expensive ingredients to make this shine. Simple, fresh produce does all the heavy lifting here.
Ingredients
The magic of this pasta truly lies in its vibrant ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role. They create a mix that is both nourishing and irresistible.
Don’t worry about exact measurements just yet. I have listed everything you need right here. You can find the specific amounts in the recipe card later.
- 1 Pound Pasta: Your choice of pasta provides the foundation for this dish. Think spaghetti or penne. Farfalle works great to make it your own.
- 2 Zucchini, Chopped: These green gems add a tender bite. They bring a subtle sweetness to the medley of Vegetables.
- 1 Eggplant, Chopped: Roasted to perfection, eggplant brings a creamy richness. It adds a lovely depth of flavor to the sauce.
- 1 Cup Cherry Tomatoes, Halved: These little bursts of sunshine contribute juiciness. They provide a hint of tang that balances the savory notes.
- 4 Cloves Garlic, Minced: The aromatic superstar. This infuses the Garlic Tomato Sauce with a delightful punch.
- 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil: A drizzle of this liquid gold enhances the roasting. It yields flavorful and tender veggies.
- Salt and Pepper to Taste: Essential for bringing the flavors together. Seasoning is key to making the produce shine.
- 1 Teaspoon Dried Basil: This herb adds a lovely warm note. It is an earthy flavor that is so classic in pasta dishes.
- 1 Teaspoon Dried Oregano: Another herb beauty enhancing flavor complexity. It pairs perfectly with the basil.
- Parmesan Cheese (Optional): A final flourish for serving. It adds creaminess and a lovely salty depth.
Let’s talk about the pasta shape for a second. I love using short shapes like penne or fusilli. They do a great job of catching the bits of garlic and tomato.
When selecting your Vegetables, look for firm skins. Fresh zucchini and eggplant should feel heavy for their size. This ensures they roast up nicely without getting too mushy.
For the tomatoes, cherry or grape varieties are best. They have a higher sugar content. This means they caramelize beautifully in the hot oven.
If you want to make this a Vegan Pasta, simply omit the Parmesan. You could also sprinkle some nutritional yeast on top. It gives a similar cheesy flavor.
Step-By-Step Instructions
Let’s dive into creating this vibrant dish. I have broken down the process into simple steps. Follow along and you will have a delicious meal in no time.
We are aiming for feast worthy flavors here. We want a colorful presentation that will impress everyone. It is easier than you think.
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
First, preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. That is about 200 degrees Celsius. A hot oven is crucial for this recipe.
This high heat ensures our Vegetables will roast beautifully. We want them to develop that irresistible caramelization. Low heat would just steam them.
Step 2: Toss and Roast Those Veggies
Next, grab a large bowl. Toss the chopped zucchini and eggplant with the cherry tomatoes. Add the olive oil and minced garlic.
Sprinkle in the salt, pepper, dried basil, and oregano. Make sure everything is well coated. You want those flavors to infuse every single piece.
Spread them out on a baking sheet. You want them in a single layer to roast evenly. This step is key to avoiding soggy veggies.
Roast for about 25 to 30 minutes. You are looking for them to become tender. They should have delightful golden bits on the edges.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta to Perfection
While the Roasted Vegetables are in the oven, get your water boiling. Cook your pasta according to the package instructions.
Be sure to salt your water generously. This is where the pasta truly begins to get its flavor. It should taste like the sea.
Aim for an al dente texture. This means it still has a slight bite to it. It will continue cooking slightly when mixed with the hot sauce.
Step 4: Combine for Flavor Fusion
Once the veggies are out of the oven, the magic happens. The tomatoes will have burst to create a base for the Garlic Tomato Sauce.
Combine the roasted mixture with the drained pasta in a large bowl. Give everything a good toss. Ensure the oil and juices coat the noodles.
This is where the mingling of flavors happens. The starch from the pasta helps bind the juices. It creates a cohesive and silky coating.
Step 5: Serve Hot and Enjoy
Finally, serve your pasta hot. You can add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top if desired. It adds the perfect finishing touch.
Trust me on this one. You will want to savor every single bite. The contrast of textures is just wonderful.
How To Store Leftovers
Leftovers? Yes please! This pasta dish stays delicious even the next day. In fact, the flavors often meld together even more overnight.
Room temperature storage is acceptable for up to 2 hours after cooking. After that, you need to get it into the cold.
In the refrigerator, store it in an airtight container. It will keep well for about 3 to 4 days. It makes for a perfect quick lunch.
If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. It will last for 2 to 3 months in the freezer. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before eating.
To reheat, I recommend using a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil or a little water. This helps to loosen the sauce back up.
You can also use the microwave if you are in a rush. Just cover it to keep the moisture in. Stir halfway through to ensure even heating.
Tips
Here are a few tricks to make sure your Vegetables turn out perfect every time. A little attention to detail goes a long way.
Use high quality olive oil for drizzling. Since the sauce is simple, the oil flavor really comes through. It makes a big difference.
Don’t skip roasting the veggies! This step builds concentrated flavors. It transforms the texture completely compared to sautéing.
Ensure your pasta is not overcooked. You want to maintain a nice texture. Mushy pasta can ruin the dish.
Finish with fresh herbs if you have them on hand. Fresh basil or parsley elevate the dish. They add a pop of color and freshness.
Experiment with seasonal Vegetables to keep things fresh. You can use asparagus in the spring. Bell peppers work great in the summer.
If you want a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes. A pinch before roasting adds a nice background warmth. It balances the sweetness of the tomatoes.
Make sure not to crowd the baking sheet. If the veggies are touching too much, they will steam. You want them to have space to brown.
Save a little bit of the pasta cooking water. If the dish looks dry when mixing, add a splash. The starchy water helps create a creamier sauce.
Conclusion
And there you have it. A deliciously vibrant Roasted Veggie Pasta with Garlic Tomato Sauce! It is simple, honest food that tastes amazing.
I absolutely love sharing this dish with friends and family. It is one of those Easy Dinner Recipes that I turn to again and again. It never lets me down.
I hope it brings you just as much comfort and joy. Enjoy your cooking adventure! Do not forget to customize it and make it your own.
FAQ
Can I Make This Gluten Free?
Absolutely. Just swap the regular pasta for your favorite gluten free brand. Chickpea or brown rice pasta works very well with these roasted Vegetables.
What Other Vegetables Can I Use?
You can use almost anything. Bell peppers, red onions, and broccoli are great additions. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes so they cook evenly.
Is This Recipe Vegan?
Yes, the base recipe is completely plant based. It is a fantastic Vegan Pasta option. Just ensure you skip the optional Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative.
Can I Add Protein?
Definitely. Grilled chicken or shrimp would be delicious. For a vegetarian option, try adding chickpeas or white beans when you toss the pasta.
Do I Need To Peel The Eggplant?
No, you do not need to peel it. The skin softens beautifully when roasted. It also adds nice color and texture to the final dish.
Roasted Veggie Pasta with Garlic Tomato Sauce
A comforting pasta dish brimming with roasted vegetables and a rich garlic tomato sauce. This easy, family-friendly meal is perfect for busy weeknights and can be customized with your favorite seasonal veggies. Enjoy a delicious and no-fuss dinner with simple cleanup.
Requirements
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius).
- In a large bowl, toss the chopped zucchini and eggplant with the cherry tomatoes, olive oil, and minced garlic. Sprinkle in the salt, pepper, dried basil, and oregano. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 25 to 30 minutes, until tender and golden.
- While the vegetables roast, cook your pasta according to package instructions in generously salted water until al dente.
- Once the veggies are out of the oven, combine the roasted mixture with the drained pasta in a large bowl, tossing well to coat the noodles with the flavorful oil and juices.
- Serve hot, with an optional sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top if desired.
Notes
Use high quality olive oil for drizzling, as its flavor really comes through.
Don’t skip roasting the veggies; this step builds concentrated flavors and transforms their texture.
Ensure your pasta is not overcooked to maintain a nice texture.
Finish with fresh basil or parsley if you have them on hand for a pop of color and freshness.
Experiment with seasonal vegetables like asparagus or bell peppers.
Add red pepper flakes before roasting for a bit of heat.
Do not crowd the baking sheet to ensure veggies brown instead of steam.
Save some pasta cooking water to add a splash if the dish looks dry, for a creamier sauce.
Nutrition
Calories
Sugar
Fat
Carbs
























