Roasted Veggie Pasta with Feta

If you’re looking for a quick and delightful meal that feels like a warm hug, then this Roasted Veggie Pasta with Feta is just what you need! It combines the freshness of colorful vegetables with the creamy goodness of feta cheese. This dish has become a staple in my kitchen because it’s not only easy to whip up but also incredibly satisfying. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a gathering with friends, this pasta dish brings everyone together around the table.

The best part? You can adjust the veggies based on what you have on hand, making it perfect for any season or occasion. Plus, it’s packed with flavor and nutrition, so you can feel good about serving it to your loved ones!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy to Prepare: With just a few steps and minimal cleanup, you can have dinner ready in 25 minutes!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the vibrant flavors and textures of roasted veggies mixed with pasta.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This dish keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Loaded with fresh vegetables and healthy fats from olive oil, you’ll enjoy every bite guilt-free.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of roasted vegetables and tangy feta creates a dish that is bursting with flavor!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients is half the fun! You’ll find everything you need at your local grocery store. Let’s get started!

For the Pasta

• 1 pound fusilli (or other chunky pasta)

For the Roasted Veggies and Feta

• 6 ounce block of feta
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 1 red onion, cut into thin wedges
• 2 small zucchini (or 1 large), diced into 1/2 inch pieces
• 1 orange bell pepper, diced into 1/2 inch pieces

For Seasoning

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice

For Serving

• 2 cups fresh baby arugula

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on your taste preferences or what’s available in your pantry.

• Change Up the Cheese: Swap feta for goat cheese or a dairy-free alternative to suit your dietary needs.
• Add More Greens: Toss in some spinach or kale for an extra boost of nutrients.
• Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or your favorite herbs for a bit more heat and flavor.
• Include Different Veggies: Use seasonal veggies like asparagus, broccoli, or eggplant for variety.

How to Make Roasted Veggie Pasta with Feta

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. This step ensures that your vegetables roast perfectly, bringing out their natural sweetness.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables and Feta

Place your feta block and all chopped vegetables on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle them with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Toss everything together well; this will help enhance their flavors as they roast.

Step 3: Roast in the Oven

Bake everything in the oven for about 15 minutes. Keep an eye on those cherry tomatoes—they should burst open and release their juices, creating a heavenly sauce that will coat your pasta beautifully.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

While everything is roasting away, boil your fusilli in very salty water according to package directions. Salting the water enhances the pasta’s flavor. Drain once cooked but don’t rinse—it helps keep the sauce stickier.

Step 5: Combine Everything Together

Once your veggies are out of the oven and looking all delicious, combine them with the drained pasta in a large bowl. Stir gently to ensure that the feta spreads throughout evenly. Then add in any remaining olive oil, salt, black pepper, lemon juice, and toss in arugula for some lovely greens!

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve immediately while it’s warm! If there are leftovers (though I doubt there will be!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Enjoy this fantastic Roasted Veggie Pasta with Feta again as an easy lunch or dinner option!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Veggie Pasta with Feta

Making the perfect Roasted Veggie Pasta with Feta is a breeze with these helpful tips!

• Choose seasonal veggies: Using fresh, in-season vegetables not only enhances the flavor but also adds vibrant colors to your dish, making it visually appealing.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: When roasting veggies, ensure they have enough space on the baking sheet. This allows them to caramelize beautifully rather than steam.
• Experiment with herbs: Adding fresh or dried herbs like basil or oregano can elevate the flavors and make your pasta even more aromatic and delicious.
• Adjust the feta: If you’re a feta lover, feel free to add more! The creamy texture complements the roasted veggies perfectly and brings a delightful tang.
• Save some pasta water: Before draining your pasta, reserve a cup of pasta water; adding a bit back into your dish can help bring everything together if it seems dry.

How to Serve Roasted Veggie Pasta with Feta

Serving your Roasted Veggie Pasta with Feta can be a fun and creative process! Here are some ideas to make your presentation stand out.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A sprinkle of fresh basil adds a pop of color and enhances the herbaceous notes in the dish.
• Chili flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, sprinkling some chili flakes on top will give your pasta an exciting kick.
• Zest of lemon: A bit of lemon zest right before serving brightens up the entire dish, adding freshness to every bite.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Soft and buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your pasta, making each meal satisfying and complete.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light mixed green salad dressed in a simple vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta while adding crunch and freshness to your meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: Keep it simple by roasting extra vegetables as a side. They echo the flavors in your main dish and add variety to your meal.
• Crispy Chickpeas: Roasted chickpeas seasoned with spices provide a crunchy contrast that pairs nicely with the creamy feta pasta.

Now you’re all set to enjoy this delightful weeknight meal! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Roasted Veggie Pasta with Feta is not only a delightful dish but also an excellent option for meal prep. You can whip it up in advance and enjoy the flavors throughout the week!

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Make sure to allow it to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing

• This dish can be frozen, but it’s best to freeze the pasta without the arugula.
• Place the cooled pasta and roasted veggies into a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Label and date the container; it will keep well for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or a bit of water to loosen it up.
• Alternatively, you can microwave it in short bursts, stirring occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Roasted Veggie Pasta with Feta that might help you out!

Can I use other types of pasta for Roasted Veggie Pasta with Feta?

Absolutely! While fusilli works wonderfully, feel free to substitute it with any chunky pasta you like, such as penne or rotini. Just adjust cooking time according to package instructions.

How do I make Roasted Veggie Pasta with Feta vegan?

To make this dish vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based feta alternative. You could also sprinkle some nutritional yeast on top for added flavor!

What vegetables work well in Roasted Veggie Pasta with Feta?

You can customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables! Consider adding bell peppers, asparagus, or even broccoli. The key is to choose veggies that roast well.

How long does Roasted Veggie Pasta with Feta last in the fridge?

This delicious pasta can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just make sure it’s kept in an airtight container to maintain freshness!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Roasted Veggie Pasta with Feta! It’s a vibrant, nourishing meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping. The combination of roasted vegetables and creamy feta creates a symphony of flavors that will surely delight your taste buds. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite ingredients. Happy cooking!