Pesto Pasta with Oven-Roasted Vegetables

This delectable Pesto Pasta with Oven-Roasted Vegetables combines tender pasta with vibrant, flavorful pesto sauce and a mix of richly roasted vegetables. It’s a perfect dish for any occasion, whether it be a weeknight dinner or an elegant meal for guests. The pesto sauce, made from fresh basil, toasted pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan, gives this dish an aromatic and savory touch. Roasted vegetables add depth and texture to the dish, making it not only delicious but also nutritious.

Ingredients:

For the Pesto:
– 2 cups fresh basil leaves
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/3 cup pine nuts, toasted
– 2 garlic cloves
– 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pasta and Vegetables:
– 12 oz pasta (such as fusilli or penne)
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 red onion, sliced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat Your Oven:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Prepare the Vegetables:
In a large bowl, toss the bell peppers, zucchini, red onion, and cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer.

3. Roast the Vegetables:
Roast the vegetables for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly charred around the edges. Remove from the oven and set aside.

4. Cook the Pasta:
While the vegetables are roasting, cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

5. Make the Pesto:
In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, toasted pine nuts, and garlic. Pulse until coarsely chopped. While the processor is running, slowly add the olive oil until the mixture is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Combine Everything Together:
In a large serving bowl, combine the cooked pasta, roasted vegetables, and pesto sauce. Toss until everything is well coated.

7. Serve:
Serve immediately, garnished with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and a few fresh basil leaves if desired.

Enjoy your Pesto Pasta with Oven-Roasted Vegetables! This colorful and nutritious dish is sure to be a hit.