Are you ready to transform your weeknight dinner into a restaurant-worthy culinary experience? This mouthwatering Pasta with Goat Cheese and Roasted Vegetables is about to become your new obsession! Imagine perfectly caramelized vegetables, creamy goat cheese, and al dente pasta dancing together in one irresistible dish that's not just a meal, but a flavor explosion that will make your taste buds sing. In just 40 minutes, you'll create a Mediterranean masterpiece that looks gourmet but is surprisingly simple to prepare.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 4 ounces goat cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Wash and prepare the vegetables: slice zucchini into half-moon shapes, chop bell pepper into roughly 1-inch pieces, and halve the cherry tomatoes. Spread the vegetables evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Drizzle olive oil over the vegetables, then season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss the vegetables to ensure they are evenly coated with oil and seasoning.
- Roast the vegetables in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until they are tender and have slight caramelization on the edges.
- While vegetables are roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water before draining the pasta. This starchy water will help create a creamy sauce later.
- Return the drained pasta to the pot. Add roasted vegetables and crumble goat cheese over the top. Gently toss to combine, using reserved pasta water to help melt the cheese and create a light sauce.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve immediately in warm bowls, garnishing with fresh torn basil leaves. Optionally, drizzle with a little extra olive oil for added richness.
Tips
- For maximum flavor, choose high-quality goat cheese and fresh vegetables. The quality of ingredients can dramatically elevate this dish.
- Don't skip reserving pasta water! The starchy liquid is crucial for creating a silky, smooth sauce that helps the cheese melt perfectly.
- Cut vegetables into similar-sized pieces to ensure even roasting. This guarantees each bite has consistent texture and caramelization.
- For extra depth of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving.
- If you prefer a lighter version, you can use whole wheat pasta or substitute zucchini noodles for a lower-carb alternative.
- Fresh basil is key - add it just before serving to maintain its vibrant color and aromatic flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 25mg
