Valentine Dinner Roasted Veggie Pasta

Name: Valentine Dinner Roasted Veggie Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli); 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped; 1 zucchini, sliced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil, for garnish; Parmesan cheese, for serving

Highlighted under: Fresh Favorites

I absolutely adore creating special dishes that not only taste amazing but also look beautiful on the plate. This Valentine Dinner Roasted Veggie Pasta has quickly become one of my favorite recipes to prepare. The combination of roasted seasonal vegetables, al dente pasta, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs creates a delightful culinary experience. I love how the simplicity of the ingredients comes together to form something truly elegant, perfect for a romantic dinner or special occasion.

Created by

Ione Rutherford

Last updated on 2026-01-05T17:46:23.676Z

When I first made this roasted veggie pasta for Valentine’s Day, it was a hit! The roasted bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes caramelize beautifully, adding both texture and flavor. I learned that roasting the veggies brings out their natural sweetness, making the dish taste fresh and vibrant. Paired with the pasta, it’s not just filling but also visually stunning.

I always top it off with freshly grated parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil, which adds richness and a lovely finish. If you want to impress your loved ones, this is a recipe worth trying!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Colorful array of roasted veggies bursting with flavor
Deliciously cooked pasta that holds sauce perfectly
Great for creating a cozy and romantic dinner experience

The Art of Roasting

Roasting vegetables is a transformative process that elevates their natural sweetness and creates a satisfying caramelization. For this recipe, ensure you cut your veggies into similar sizes to promote even cooking. Aim for about 1-inch pieces for the bell peppers and zucchini, as this allows them to achieve that perfect tender texture while maintaining some bite. Roasting at 425°F (220°C) helps to achieve that golden brown exterior, so keep a close watch towards the end of the cooking time to prevent any burning.

The garlic in this dish plays a crucial role, infusing your roasted vegetables with a depth of flavor. I recommend adding the minced garlic halfway through the roasting process, as it can burn if exposed to high heat for too long. This way, you get a lovely mellowed taste without that bitter burn. When the veggies come out of the oven, they should be glistening and fragrant, promising a delightful experience in every bite.

Choosing the Right Pasta

Selecting the right type of pasta is vital for achieving the best texture in your Roasted Veggie Pasta. Pasta shapes like penne or fusilli are ideal as their crevices allow them to catch and hold onto the herb-infused olive oil and roasted vegetable juices beautifully. Be sure to cook the pasta just until al dente, which is usually 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions suggest. This step ensures that the pasta remains firm and provides the perfect base to contrast with the tender roasted veggies.

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, consider using chickpea or lentil pasta. These alternatives not only cater to gluten sensitivities but also add an additional layer of protein to the dish. Keep in mind that these pastas may cook faster than traditional varieties, so be sure to keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a mouthwatering dish.

Ingredients

8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
1 zucchini, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil, for garnish
Parmesan cheese, for serving

Make sure all produce is washed and prepped for cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your delightful pasta dish.

Prepare the veggies

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl, toss the chopped bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and minced garlic with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Roasting the vegetables

Spread the veggies evenly on a baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly caramelized.

Cook the pasta

While the veggies are roasting, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Combine and serve

Once the veggies are done, mix them into the pasta. Toss everything together and serve with fresh basil and grated Parmesan on top.

Enjoy your special dinner!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider including a splash of balsamic vinegar before serving to enhance the dish further.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Roasted Veggie Pasta can easily be prepared ahead of time, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights or special occasions. After mixing the roasted vegetables with the pasta, allow the dish to cool to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be kept for up to three days. When ready to eat, reheat gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or a bit of pasta cooking water to help restore its initial texture.

If you’re planning to serve the pasta at a later time, consider keeping the veggies and pasta separate until just before serving. This can help prevent the pasta from absorbing too much moisture and becoming soggy. Just remember to season the dish again before serving, as flavors may diminish after storage.

Serving Suggestions

When serving your Valentine Dinner Roasted Veggie Pasta, consider topping it with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of umami flavor. A drizzle of high-quality balsamic glaze can also add a delightful tang and extra visual appeal. Don't forget to sprinkle a generous handful of fresh basil on top, which not only enhances the dish's aroma but also complements the sweetness of the roasted veggies beautifully.

To elevate your dining experience, serve this pasta alongside a simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the greens will contrast nicely with the warm, hearty pasta, creating a balanced meal perfect for a romantic dinner. A glass of crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, would pair wonderfully with the flavors of the roasted vegetables.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorites like asparagus, mushrooms, or spinach.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

You can easily make this recipe vegan by omitting the cheese or using a plant-based alternative.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Penne and fusilli hold the sauce well, but you can use any pasta you love!

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

You can roast the veggies ahead of time and simply reheat before serving to save time.