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Roasted Veggie Pasta with Balsamic Vinaigrette

A simple, satisfying roasted veggie pasta that uses a clever vinaigrette trick to keep leftovers from drying out. Perfect for meal prep or a quick dinner.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American-Italian
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces 340g short pasta (like penne or rotini)
  • 1 medium zucchini halved lengthwise and sliced into half-moons
  • 1 medium yellow squash halved lengthwise and sliced into half-moons
  • 1 red bell pepper chopped into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 small red onion cut into 1-inch wedges
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil divided
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt divided
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper divided
  • 1/4 cup 60ml balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 garlic clove minced
  • 1/4 cup 60ml extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 cup 20g fresh basil leaves, torn
  • 1/4 cup 30g grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Equipment

  • rimmed baking sheet
  • Large pot
  • colander
  • chef's knife
  • cutting board
  • large mixing bowl
  • whisk
  • small bowl

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) with a rack in the middle. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  2. In a large bowl, combine zucchini, yellow squash, bell pepper, and red onion. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil, sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
  3. Spread vegetables in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until tender and browned at the edges. The zucchini should be soft but not mushy, and the peppers should have charred spots.
  4. While vegetables roast, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water before draining. Drain pasta and set aside.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt, and remaining 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Slowly drizzle in the extra-virgin olive oil while whisking until emulsified.
  6. In a large mixing bowl, combine the roasted vegetables, cooked pasta, and vinaigrette. Toss gently. Add 2-3 tablespoons of the reserved pasta water and toss again. The starch in the water helps the vinaigrette cling to every piece.
  7. Fold in torn basil and Parmesan (if using). Taste and add more salt, pepper, or a splash of vinegar if needed. Serve warm or at room temperature.
  8. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To revive, add a drizzle of olive oil or a splash of water and reheat gently.

Notes

Storage: Keeps in the fridge for 4 days. The vinaigrette keeps the pasta from drying out. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water to restore moisture. Allergens: Contains gluten and dairy (Parmesan). For a dairy-free version, omit cheese or use a plant-based alternative. For gluten-free, use certified gluten-free pasta. Always handle hot baking sheets with oven mitts.