Looking for a vibrant and delicious dish that will elevate your weeknight dinners? Look no further than our Lemon and Thyme Roasted Vegetables with Pasta! This Italian-inspired recipe combines the fresh flavors of seasonal vegetables with the zesty brightness of lemon and aromatic thyme, creating a delightful symphony of taste that will leave your taste buds dancing. With just 40 minutes from prep to plate, you can whip up a wholesome meal that’s not only satisfying but also packed with nutrients. Ready to impress your family or guests? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups pasta
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
- Wash and prepare all vegetables: dice the zucchini into 1-inch cubes, slice the red onion into thin wedges, chop the bell pepper into similar-sized pieces, and halve the cherry tomatoes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced zucchini, bell pepper, red onion, and cherry tomatoes. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle fresh thyme leaves, and add salt and pepper. Toss vegetables to ensure even coating.
- Spread the seasoned vegetables in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, stirring once halfway through to ensure even caramelization.
- While vegetables are roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- Drain the pasta and return it to the pot. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the pasta and toss lightly.
- Once vegetables are roasted and slightly charred, remove from oven. Immediately add roasted vegetables to the pasta, gently mixing to combine.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed. Serve hot, garnished with extra fresh thyme leaves if desired.
Tips
- Choose Seasonal Vegetables: Feel free to mix and match your favorite vegetables. Seasonal produce like asparagus, carrots, or broccoli can add variety and flavor to your dish.
- Don’t Rush the Roasting: Roasting the vegetables at a high temperature allows them to caramelize beautifully, enhancing their natural sweetness. Make sure to spread them out in a single layer for even cooking.
- Perfect Pasta: For the best texture, cook your pasta just until al dente. This will ensure it holds up well when mixed with the roasted vegetables and lemon juice.
- Fresh Herbs Matter: Using fresh thyme instead of dried will provide a more vibrant flavor. If you have other fresh herbs on hand, such as basil or parsley, feel free to toss those in as well!
- Adjust to Your Taste: Don't hesitate to tweak the seasoning. A little extra lemon juice or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick!
- Serve It Right: For an extra touch, consider garnishing your dish with grated Parmesan cheese or additional fresh thyme leaves before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
