Fresh from the oven comes an enticing aroma of roasted vegetables mingled with the rich creaminess of sauce, making this Vegetable Pasta a delightful treat. In just under 30 minutes, you can create a satisfying meal that highlights seasonal produce and delivers on flavor. Roasting the veggies intensifies their sweetness, ensuring that each bite is a burst of deliciousness.
This recipe is perfect for vegetarians, busy weeknight dinners, or anyone looking to incorporate more vegetables into their meals. With the option to prep ingredients in advance, it’s an excellent choice for meal prepping or quick family dinners.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Enjoy a creamy texture balanced with tender roasted vegetables.
- It’s a quick dish that takes under 30 minutes to prepare.
- The roasting technique enhances the vegetables’ natural sweetness.
- You can customize the dish easily with seasonal produce.
What You’ll Need
Gather the following ingredients to prepare this delicious Vegetable Pasta:
For the Pasta
- 12 oz. pasta (fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne)
For the Vegetables
- 1 lb asparagus, trimmed
- 1 medium zucchini, halved and sliced
- 1 medium yellow squash, halved and sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3-6 garlic cloves, minced
For the Sauce
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 – 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated
- 1/2-1 cup frozen peas
- 1-3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice, optional
- 1-2 tablespoons fresh parsley, minced
For Seasoning
- Salt, to taste
- Ground black pepper, to taste
Note: Use dairy-free cream for a vegan option.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Zucchini can be replaced with bell peppers.
- Use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free cheese alternative.
- Swap asparagus with broccoli or green beans.
- Penne can be substituted with gluten-free pasta.
How to Make It
Prepare this delightful dish by following these steps.
1. Preheat the oven
Preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Place a large rimmed baking sheet inside the oven while it heats.
2. Cook the pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta per your preferred texture, saving about 1 cup of the pasta water before draining.
3. Prep the asparagus
Cut off the bottom fibrous part of the asparagus. Toss with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and some minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper, mixing well to combine.
4. Mix the zucchini and squash
Combine the zucchini and yellow squash with another tablespoon of olive oil, salt, pepper, and a bit more minced garlic. Place all veggies on the preheated baking sheet for roasting.
5. Roast the vegetables
Roast the vegetables in the oven for about 10 minutes, until they are tender and slightly caramelized.
6. Sauté the onion and garlic
While the veggies roast, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet. Add the chopped onion and remaining minced garlic, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes until tender and lightly golden.
7. Prepare the cream sauce
Pour in the heavy cream, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for about 2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
8. Combine ingredients
Add the Parmesan cheese to the sauce and whisk to combine. Set aside to keep warm.
9. Toss everything together
When the vegetables are fully roasted and the pasta is ready, gently toss the pasta, roasted veggies, frozen peas, cream sauce, and minced parsley together.
10. Adjust flavor and serve
Add fresh lemon juice if desired to brighten the flavor. Incorporate some reserved pasta water as needed to achieve the desired sauce consistency.
11. Garnish
Serve with a garnish of extra parsley and Parmesan cheese on top.
How to Store It
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: No, due to the cream sauce texture.
Reheat: Microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
Tips for Best Results
- Make sure your baking sheet is very hot for optimal vegetable roasting.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for better flavor and texture.
- Adjust the level of garlic based on your personal taste preference.
- Reserve pasta water before draining, as it helps loosen the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Serve alongside a light salad for a fresh touch.
- Enjoy with a glass of white wine for a lovely dinner.
