Bow Tie Pasta With Roasted Vegetables

Name: Bow Tie Pasta With Roasted Vegetables
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz bow tie pasta; 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 3 tbsp olive oil; Salt to taste; Black pepper to taste; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Parmesan cheese, grated (for serving)

Highlighted under: Fresh Start Meals

When I first made Bow Tie Pasta with Roasted Vegetables, I was amazed at how such simple ingredients could create a vibrant, flavorful dish. The roasted vegetables add a delightful earthiness and sweetness that perfectly complements the pasta. I love how this recipe allows versatility; I can throw in whatever seasonal veggies I have on hand. It’s a great way to make a weeknight meal feel special without a lot of fuss, and the colors on the plate are just breathtaking!

Created by

Lucy Price

Last updated on 2026-02-28T05:17:35.292Z

As I was experimenting in my kitchen last week, I decided to roast some vegetables to elevate my pasta dish. The combination of bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes was just divine! I found that roasting at a high temperature not only enhances the flavors but also brings out a delicious caramelization that I absolutely love.

This recipe is incredibly adaptable; you can switch up the vegetables based on what you have or what’s in season. I often add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese at the end for an extra layer of flavor. Each bite is a burst of freshness and warmth.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright and colorful appearance that's irresistible
Roasted veggies add deep, rich flavors
Quick to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners

Choosing the Right Vegetables

One of the best aspects of Bow Tie Pasta with Roasted Vegetables is its adaptability to whatever vegetables are in season or available in your kitchen. While cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and bell peppers create a delightful balance of sweetness and texture, consider adding eggplant, asparagus, or even carrots. Aim for vegetables with varying water content to prevent a soggy dish; firmer vegetables tend to hold up better during roasting, providing that satisfying caramelization.

When preparing your vegetables, it’s crucial to cut them into uniform sizes for even cooking. Smaller pieces will roast faster and may become mushy, while larger chunks could remain undercooked. I recommend cutting your veggies into bite-sized pieces, around one inch, to ensure they’re all perfectly tender and slightly crispy by the end of roasting.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

While the vegetables are roasting, the timing is key for the pasta. Achieve al dente pasta by cooking it for about 10-12 minutes, as per the package instructions, but make sure to taste it a minute or two before the suggested time. The goal is a slight bite, as it will continue to cook slightly when combined with the hot roasted vegetables. If you find the pasta overcooked, it may not hold its shape well when mixed with the veggies.

Once the vegetables are roasted, they should have golden-brown edges and a caramelized appearance. This indicates that the natural sugars have intensified, enhancing their flavors. If your veggies aren’t browning as expected, check that your oven is calibrated correctly and make sure they're spread out on the baking sheet—a crowded pan can trap steam and inhibit roasting.

Ingredients

Bow Tie Pasta Ingredients

8 oz bow tie pasta
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1 zucchini, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
3 tbsp olive oil
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Parmesan cheese, grated (for serving)

Instructions

Steps

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature will help achieve the roasted texture you desire.

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and bell pepper. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Toss until well coated.

Roast the Vegetables

Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until they're tender and slightly caramelized.

Cook the Pasta

While the vegetables are roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bow tie pasta and cook according to package instructions (usually about 10-12 minutes) until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Combine Ingredients

Add the roasted vegetables to the cooked pasta in a large bowl. Toss to combine, adding more olive oil if necessary.

Serve

Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add any other vegetables you love or have on hand! This recipe can be enjoyed warm or as a cold pasta salad the next day.

Variations and Additions

While this recipe highlights classic Mediterranean flavors, you can easily give it an intriguing twist. Consider adding fresh herbs like basil or arugula just before serving for a fresh burst of flavor. You can also incorporate protein options such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to make the dish more filling. For a zingy touch, try a splash of balsamic reduction over the top just before serving.

Don’t hesitate to incorporate grains like quinoa or farro to make this dish heartier. These grains serve as a wonderful base and absorb the flavors when they mix with the roasted vegetables and pasta. They also add a beautiful nutty flavor, enhancing the dish's overall profile.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, store the pasta and roasted vegetables separately in airtight containers to maintain their textures. The pasta can last up to three days in the fridge, while the roasted vegetables will stay fresh for about five days. Reheating them in the oven rather than the microwave helps to regain some of that crispy texture in the vegetables, ensuring they don’t become limp.

For longer storage, consider freezing the roasted veggies. Simply allow them to cool completely before packing them into a freezer-safe bag, and they can last up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, there’s no need to thaw—just toss them frozen into the oven or a skillet to warm up. This makes a quick weeknight meal even easier!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! Any pasta shape you enjoy can work well with this recipe.

→ How can I make this recipe vegan?

Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas would be excellent additions.

→ What other vegetables can I use?

You can use broccoli, carrots, asparagus, or whatever seasonal vegetables you prefer.