Vegetable Pasta Primavera (Printable Version)

Al dente penne with caramelized vegetables, aromatic herbs, and a tangy balsamic finish that creates a restaurant-worthy dish.

# Ingredients:

→ Vegetables

01 - 8 oz cherry tomatoes, halved
02 - 1 zucchini, sliced
03 - 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
04 - 1 red onion, sliced

→ Pantry Items

05 - 2 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for sautéing
06 - 1 tsp dried basil
07 - 1 tsp dried oregano
08 - Salt and pepper to taste
09 - 8 oz penne pasta
10 - 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar

→ Fresh Aromatics

11 - 2 garlic cloves, minced
12 - Fresh basil leaves for garnish

# Steps:

01 - Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, zucchini, bell pepper, and red onion. Toss with olive oil, dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
03 - Spread seasoned vegetables in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes until tender and caramelized.
04 - While vegetables roast, cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
05 - In a large skillet, sauté minced garlic in a drizzle of olive oil until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
06 - Add roasted vegetables to the skillet with garlic and stir gently. Add balsamic vinegar and cooked pasta, tossing until well combined.
07 - If mixture seems dry, gradually add reserved pasta water until desired sauce consistency is achieved.
08 - Season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves.

# Notes:

01 - Choose firm, glossy zucchini and ripe, sweet cherry tomatoes for best results.
02 - Don't overcrowd the roasting pan - use two sheets if necessary for proper caramelization.
03 - The reserved pasta water contains starch that helps create a silky sauce consistency.