Roasted Zucchini Tomato Herb Pasta

Name: Roasted Zucchini Tomato Herb Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 3 medium zucchinis, sliced; 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 3 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 300g pasta of choice (like linguine or penne); Fresh basil leaves for garnish; Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)

Highlighted under: Natural Kitchen

I love making Roasted Zucchini Tomato Herb Pasta because it’s a delightful dish that manages to be both simple and special. When the weather warms up, I find myself reaching for fresh vegetables, and roasting them enhances their natural sweetness. This pasta dish comes together in no time and the fresh herbs tie everything together beautifully. Whether I’m preparing it for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, it’s always a hit. Plus, it’s an excellent way to incorporate more veggies into my meals!

Created by

Leonie Fairchild

Last updated on 2026-01-21T21:37:34.881Z

Making this pasta is a true joy for me, especially when I can use zucchini and tomatoes straight from my garden. I’ve learned that roasting vegetables brings out rich flavors and enhances their natural sweetness, which makes the dish so much more appealing. I always roast my veggies until they are slightly caramelized, giving the pasta a rich depth that’s hard to resist.

One of my favorite tips is to incorporate fresh herbs at the end of cooking. This not only brightens the dish but also adds a contrasting freshness that keeps it light. This little detail makes every bite a burst of summer flavor, and it’s why I keep going back to this recipe!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bursting with fresh vegetable flavors
Perfectly roasted for a sweet and savory profile
Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion

Choosing the Right Pasta

The choice of pasta can significantly affect the overall experience of this dish. I recommend lighter options like linguine or penne, as they hold onto the fresh vegetable flavors beautifully. When cooking your pasta, ensure it's al dente, which means it should retain a slight firmness when bitten. This texture contrasts nicely with the tender, roasted zucchini and tomatoes, making every bite satisfying.

If you're looking to make this dish gluten-free, you can easily substitute regular pasta with gluten-free varieties made from rice, chickpeas, or lentils. Just be mindful of the cooking times, as these alternatives can cook faster than traditional pasta. Always taste test to achieve that perfect al dente texture!

The Role of Herbs in Flavor Enhancement

Fresh herbs are a game changer in this recipe. While dried herbs work well, fresh basil at the end of the cooking process elevates the dish with its vibrant aroma and flavor. To fully release the essential oils, add fresh basil leaves just before serving. You can also experiment with other herbs like thyme or parsley for a unique twist on the flavor profile.

If you're in a pinch or don't have fresh herbs on hand, feel free to use a handful of dried herbs, adjusting the amount to about a third of what you'd use for fresh. Just remember that drying herbs often have a more concentrated flavor, so start with a smaller quantity and adjust according to your taste!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this flavorful pasta dish:

Ingredients

3 medium zucchinis, sliced
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
3 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
300g pasta of choice (like linguine or penne)
Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)

These fresh and simple ingredients create a wonderful medley of flavors in your pasta.

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Roasted Zucchini Tomato Herb Pasta:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Prepare the Vegetables

On a baking sheet, combine the sliced zucchinis and halved cherry tomatoes. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, minced garlic, oregano, and basil. Toss to coat evenly.

Roast the Vegetables

Roast in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Cook the Pasta

While the vegetables are roasting, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Combine and Serve

Once the vegetables are roasted, combine them with the cooked pasta in a large bowl. Toss well to combine and serve immediately, garnishing with fresh basil and optional Parmesan cheese.

Enjoy your delicious pasta packed with roasted veggies!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding red pepper flakes during the roasting process for a bit of heat.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Roasted Zucchini Tomato Herb Pasta can be prepared ahead of time for a quick dinner option. You can roast the zucchini and tomatoes in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. Then, just cook the pasta fresh when you're ready to eat. This keeps the dish vibrant and ensures the pasta doesn’t become mushy from sitting too long with the veggies.

If you're considering meal prepping for the week, you could also cook the pasta and store it separately from the roasted vegetables. Just make sure to drizzle a bit of olive oil over the pasta to prevent sticking. When it's time to eat, combine everything and warm it gently in a pan over low heat for the best texture!

Serving Suggestions

For a more filling meal, consider adding protein to your pasta. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas can enhance the dish while adding heartiness. If you opt for chickpeas, I recommend roasting them alongside the vegetables to infuse them with flavor. Just toss them in some olive oil and spices before placing them in the oven.

Additionally, serving the pasta with a side salad featuring mixed greens, a balsamic vinaigrette, and slices of crusty bread can add variety to your meal. The fresh crunch in the salad complements the roasted pasta beautifully, rounding out the dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables for this pasta?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, eggplant, or even asparagus would make great additions.

→ Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, it is completely vegetarian and can easily be made vegan by omitting the Parmesan cheese.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can roast the veggies and cook the pasta ahead of time. Just combine them when you're ready to serve.