Description
A vibrant and flavorful pasta dish featuring oven-roasted vegetables tossed with al dente pasta and creamy feta cheese. Perfect for a wholesome dinner packed with Mediterranean-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta
- 1 medium zucchini, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 1 small red onion, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 4 oz (115 g) feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, toss zucchini, red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, red onion, and cherry tomatoes with olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Spread the vegetables evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway, until tender and slightly caramelized.
- Meanwhile, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water.
- In a large serving bowl, combine the cooked pasta, roasted vegetables, and reserved pasta water. Toss gently to combine.
- Top with crumbled feta cheese and fresh basil. Serve warm.
Notes
- Cut vegetables to similar sizes for even roasting and the best texture and caramelization.
- Don’t skip the reserved pasta water—it helps create a creamy, cohesive sauce without extra oil or cream.
- For a protein boost, add a can of rinsed chickpeas or your favorite chicken sausage.
- Let veggies cool for 3-5 minutes before combining with pasta to keep feta from melting completely—preserving those creamy, tangy bites.
- Use high-quality feta cheese (preferably block feta in brine) for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet—spread veggies in a single layer for perfect caramelization and roasted edges.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Dishes
- Method: Roasting, Boiling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420cal
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 0mg