Why Pasta with Roasted Zucchini and Feta is a Great Idea
Pasta with Roasted Zucchini and Feta is a delicious and easy weeknight dinner option that is sure to please the entire family. The combination of roasted zucchini and tangy feta cheese makes for a satisfying and flavorful meal that is both hearty and healthy. This dish is also vegetarian and gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
Ingredients
- 350g fusilli pasta
- 3 medium zucchinis
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 100g crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Cooking Steps
- Preheat the oven to 200°C.
- Cut the zucchinis into small cubes and place them on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the zucchinis are tender and lightly browned.
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions in a large pot of salted water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- While the pasta is cooking, mince the garlic and sauté it in a large skillet with olive oil over medium heat until fragrant.
- Add the roasted zucchinis to the skillet and toss to combine with the garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes until heated through.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss with the zucchini and garlic mixture. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top and toss to combine.
- Serve hot with fresh herbs and additional feta cheese if desired.
Vegetarian/Vegan Version
To make this recipe vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a vegan cheese alternative. You can also add some nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Gluten-Free Version
This recipe is already gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free pasta.
Variations
- Add some cherry tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes for some extra flavor and color.
- Use different types of pasta like penne, spaghetti, or linguine.
- Add some pine nuts or walnuts for a crunchy texture.
- Add some chopped fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or oregano for some extra flavor.
Pasta with Roasted Zucchini and Feta is a delicious and easy recipe that is perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it is a great option for busy weeknights when you don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen. Try it out and enjoy a flavorful and healthy meal that the whole family will love!
FAQ
How long does it take to make Pasta with Roasted Zucchini and Feta?
It takes about 40 minutes to make this dish from start to finish, including the time it takes to roast the zucchini.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta that you like. However, we recommend using a short pasta shape, such as penne or fusilli, that will hold the sauce and zucchini well.
How should I cut the zucchini for roasting?
We recommend cutting the zucchini into bite-sized pieces, about 1 inch in size, so that they roast evenly.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use any type of cheese that you like. However, we recommend using a crumbly cheese, such as feta or goat cheese, that will complement the flavors of the roasted zucchini and pasta.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time and reheat it when you are ready to serve. However, we recommend adding a little bit of extra olive oil or pasta water when reheating to keep the pasta from drying out.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Yes, you can add other vegetables to this dish, such as cherry tomatoes or bell peppers. Just make sure to adjust the roasting time accordingly.
Do I need to peel the zucchini before roasting?
No, you do not need to peel the zucchini before roasting. The skin will become tender and delicious when roasted.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs?
Yes, you can use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs, but you will need to use less of them since they are more concentrated in flavor than fresh herbs.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, you can make this dish vegan by omitting the feta cheese and using a vegan pasta shape, such as spaghetti or linguine.
Can I use a different type of oil for roasting the zucchini?
Yes, you can use any type of oil that you like, such as avocado oil or coconut oil. However, we recommend using olive oil for its flavor and health benefits.
