Herb Roasted Veggie Pasta Skillet

Name: Herb Roasted Veggie Pasta Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz penne pasta; 2 cups bell peppers, chopped; 1 cup zucchini, chopped; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 onion, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Nutritious Creations

I love making this Herb Roasted Veggie Pasta Skillet, especially on busy weeknights when I crave a wholesome meal without much fuss. The combination of vibrant vegetables tossed with perfectly cooked pasta in fragrant herbs creates a dish that's both satisfying and nourishing. I usually enjoy customizing it based on whatever veggies I have on hand, and it always turns out delicious. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in those greens for a healthy family dinner!

Created by

Rhea Bennett

Last updated on 2026-01-15T15:52:14.405Z

When I first created this Herb Roasted Veggie Pasta Skillet, I wanted to highlight the natural sweetness of roasted vegetables paired with hearty pasta. To achieve this, I discovered that roasting the vegetables enhances their flavors beautifully, and I love adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs at the end. It’s truly a meal that captures the essence of a cozy kitchen.

One of my favorite aspects of this dish is its versatility. I've tried it with various veggies, from zucchini to bell peppers, depending on the season. Avoid overcooking the pasta; a perfect al dente texture brings the whole dish together, making each bite delightful. The secret is in balancing textures and flavors!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A perfect medley of roasted vegetables for a vibrant dish
Fresh herbs bring a fragrant twist to everyday pasta
Quick and easy to prepare for weeknight dinners

Selecting the Right Vegetables

One of the great aspects of the Herb Roasted Veggie Pasta Skillet is its versatility. You can use any combination of seasonal vegetables to make this dish reflect your personal taste or what's available in your fridge. For example, adding root vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes can provide a delightful sweetness when roasted, while leafy greens like spinach can add a pop of color and nutrition. Just keep in mind that denser vegetables might require slightly longer roasting times than softer ones like cherry tomatoes.

When choosing your vegetables, aim for a variety of colors and textures. Vibrant bell peppers give a nice crunch, while zucchini offers a tender contrast. If you prefer a bit of spice, consider adding chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the mix, elevating the flavor profile of the dish and making it more exciting.

Pasta Cooking Tips

Getting the pasta just right is key to this dish's success. Always make sure to salt your boiling water adequately; it should taste like the sea. This helps enhance the pasta flavor as it cooks. Be cautious not to overcook; al dente pasta provides a pleasant bite that holds up well against the roasted veggies and the garlic you're about to toss in. I suggest checking the pasta a minute earlier than the package instructions indicate, giving it time to finish cooking in the skillet.

For a little extra flare, consider tossing your pasta with a drizzle of olive oil while it cools to prevent sticking. Additionally, maintaining some pasta water can also be helpful. A splash of this starchy water at the final mixing stage can improve the dish's cohesion and ensure all components are well incorporated, especially if you find your pasta and veggies are a bit too dry.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your Herb Roasted Veggie Pasta Skillet.

Ingredients

8 oz penne pasta
2 cups bell peppers, chopped
1 cup zucchini, chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 onion, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Now that you have all your ingredients, you're ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Herb Roasted Veggie Pasta Skillet.

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Roast the Vegetables

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a large baking sheet, combine the bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and onion. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat everything evenly. Roast in the oven for 20 minutes, or until vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.

Combine and Serve

In a large skillet, combine the cooked pasta and roasted vegetables. Add minced garlic and toss everything together over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Your dish is ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider squeezing some lemon juice over the pasta before serving or mixing in some grated Parmesan cheese for richness.

Making It Your Own

The beauty of the Herb Roasted Veggie Pasta Skillet lies in its adaptability. You can easily tweak the herbs to suit your preferences. If you're fond of a certain herb, like thyme or rosemary, feel free to substitute them in place of oregano or basil. Fresh herbs can also be added just before serving for a brighter flavor impact, but this risk wilting if left too long in heat.

Additionally, for a protein boost, consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas into the mix before serving. This addition not only enhances the dish's nutritional value, but also provides different textures and flavors, turning your pasta skillet into a heartier meal.

Storage and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, don’t worry; this pasta skillet keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, be sure to reheat on a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of olive oil or a bit of water to prevent sticking. Stir regularly to ensure even heating and to maintain the texture as much as possible.

For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta. However, it's best to freeze without the fresh herbs to preserve their flavor. Just package the cooled pasta and veggies in freezer-safe bags or containers. When you're ready for a quick meal, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove, adding fresh herbs right before serving for that freshly cooked taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with any pasta shape you prefer, such as fusilli or spaghetti.

→ What if I don’t have fresh herbs?

You can use dried herbs as a substitute. Use about one-third of the amount called for in fresh herbs.

→ Is this dish vegan-friendly?

Yes, this recipe is completely plant-based and vegan-friendly as written!

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.