Baking Penne with Roasted Vegetables

Baking Penne with Roasted Vegetables:

Baking Penne with Roasted Vegetables: Delight your senses with the mouthwatering flavors and wholesome goodness of Baked Penne with Roasted Vegetables, a delectable pasta dish that combines tender penne pasta with a medley of roasted vegetables. This hearty and nutritious recipe is a celebration of vibrant colors, aromatic herbs, and the perfect blend of textures. In this SEO-optimized recipe article, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of preparing this delicious Baked Penne with Roasted Vegetables. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply looking for a comforting and flavorsome meal, this dish is sure to impress both kids and adults alike!

Recipe: Baking Penne with Roasted Vegetables

Ingredients:

• 12 oz (340g) penne pasta
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 cups zucchini, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 red onion, cut into wedges
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, toss the halved cherry tomatoes, diced zucchini, sliced red and yellow bell peppers, red onion wedges, and minced garlic with olive oil.
3. Season the vegetables with dried basil, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Ensure the vegetables are well coated with the aromatic herbs and olive oil.
4. Spread the seasoned vegetables in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Roast the vegetables in the preheated oven for approximately 20-25 minutes or until they are tender and slightly caramelized.
6. While the vegetables are roasting, cook the penne pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions until al dente.
7. Drain the cooked penne pasta and transfer it to a large mixing bowl.
8. Once the roasted vegetables are done, remove them from the oven and add them to the bowl with the penne pasta.
9. Gently toss the pasta and vegetables together, ensuring they are well combined.
10. Transfer the pasta and vegetable mixture to a greased baking dish.
11. Sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
12. Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
13. Once baked, remove the Baked Penne with Roasted Vegetables from the oven.
14. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and flavor (optional).

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):

Can I use other types of pasta for this dish?

Yes, you can use other short pasta shapes like rigatoni or farfalle for a different texture.

Can I add other vegetables to the dish?

Certainly! Feel free to customize the recipe with your favorite vegetables such as broccoli, eggplant, or asparagus.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! Simply omit the cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative to make this Baked Penne with Roasted Vegetables entirely vegan.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the Baked Penne with Roasted Vegetables in advance and refrigerate it. Bake it just before serving to ensure it’s fresh and hot.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

While you can freeze the leftovers, the texture of the roasted vegetables may change slightly upon thawing. It’s best to enjoy the dish fresh or refrigerate any leftover pasta separately.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried herbs?

Yes, you can use fresh basil, oregano, and thyme instead of dried herbs for a brighter and more pronounced herbal flavor.

Can I add a protein like grilled chicken?

Absolutely! Adding grilled chicken or cooked shrimp is a fantastic way to enhance the protein content of the dish.

Conclusion:

Indulge in the delightful Baked Penne with Roasted Vegetables, a flavorful and wholesome pasta dish that celebrates the vibrant colors and rich flavors of roasted vegetables. This easy-to-make recipe is a perfect blend of tender penne pasta, aromatic herbs, and a medley of roasted veggies, making it an ideal choice for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings. Each forkful is a celebration of flavors and textures, making this dish a satisfying and nutritious meal for pasta lovers of all ages. So, embrace the Baked Penne with Roasted Vegetables and make it a cherished part of your culinary repertoire. Experience the best of taste and nourishment with this delightful and flavorful baked penne, and savor every delicious and colorful bite!