Roasted Broccoli Veggie Pasta

Name: Roasted Broccoli Veggie Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz whole grain pasta; 2 cups broccoli florets; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Parmesan cheese, for serving

Highlighted under: Wellness Favorites

I can’t get enough of this Roasted Broccoli Veggie Pasta! It’s a delightful mix of roasted broccoli, whole-grain pasta, and a touch of garlic that creates a dish bursting with flavor. Making this recipe allows me to enjoy a wholesome, vegetarian meal that's also easy to prepare. Each bite is satisfying, and I love how the roasted veggies bring a depth of flavor that makes this dish truly special. If you're looking for a vibrant, nutritious meal that's perfect for any night of the week, this is it!

Created by

Elodie Fairfax

Last updated on 2026-01-19T23:29:34.574Z

When I first made this dish, I was amazed at how simple ingredients could create such a delightful meal. Roasting the broccoli until it gets slightly crisp enhances its natural sweetness, while the garlic adds a punch of flavor that's hard to resist. I decided to toss it all with whole-grain pasta, which gives a lovely texture and a boost of nutrition.

The best part about this recipe? You can easily customize it with whatever veggies you have on hand. I've experimented with bell peppers and carrots as well, and they both work wonderfully, making this pasta dish versatile and exciting!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Nutritious and colorful veggie-packed meal
Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of broccoli
Quick to make, perfect for weeknight dinners

      

Unlocking the Flavor of Roasted Broccoli

Roasting broccoli is a transformative cooking method that elevates its natural flavors. When you roast it, the high heat caramelizes the outer edges, intensifying its sweetness and creating a delightful crunch. For optimal results, ensure the broccoli florets are the same size to cook evenly. Check them around the 10-minute mark; they should be turning golden brown at the edges. If you want a little extra flavor, consider sprinkling a pinch of red pepper flakes before roasting for an added kick.

The combination of olive oil and seasoning is essential for achieving that perfect roast. Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil, as it adds a rich flavor and helps achieve that crisp texture. Don’t skimp on the salt; it enhances the broccoli's inherent taste. If you’re feeling adventurous, explore other oils like sesame for a unique twist, or add a splash of lemon juice after roasting for a zesty contrast.

Perfecting the Pasta Texture

Choosing the right pasta is crucial to the success of this dish. Whole grain pasta not only adds a nutty flavor but also boosts the nutritional profile. When cooking, follow the package instructions carefully to ensure the pasta reaches al dente texture, which typically takes about 8 to 10 minutes in boiling salted water. Remember, it will continue to cook slightly when combined with the hot broccoli and skillet, so it's best to err on the side of undercooking a bit.

To prevent the pasta from clumping together after draining, I suggest tossing it lightly with a little drizzle of olive oil. This also adds an extra flavor layer and helps the pasta to better absorb the sauce from the garlic and roasted broccoli mixture. Additionally, feel free to reserve a cup of the pasta water before draining; this starchy water can help create a silky texture once you combine all the ingredients.

Customizing Your Veggie Pasta

One of the best features of this recipe is its flexibility. You can easily swap out broccoli for other vegetables like Brussels sprouts or asparagus, depending on your preferences or what you have on hand. Just remember to adjust roasting times, as denser veggies may require longer cooking. If you're looking to add more protein, consider incorporating chickpeas or white beans, which complement the flavors beautifully while keeping the dish vegetarian.

For a creamier texture, you might add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese before serving. Additionally, if you're aiming to reduce carbs, zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash can replace pasta entirely. Serve this dish with crusty bread and a fresh green salad to complete your meal, or make it a hearty side accenting grilled meats or fish.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz whole grain pasta
2 cups broccoli florets
3 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions

Preheat the Oven and Prepare Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Meanwhile, rinse and chop the broccoli into small florets. In a mixing bowl, toss the broccoli with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.

Roast the Broccoli

Spread the broccoli on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, until the edges are crisp and slightly browned.

Cook the Pasta

While the broccoli is roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole grain pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Combine Pasta and Broccoli

Once the broccoli is done, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the roasted broccoli and cooked pasta, then toss everything together in the skillet.

Serve

Transfer the pasta to a serving dish, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, and enjoy your delicious roasted broccoli veggie pasta!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add other vegetables you love, such as bell peppers or carrots, to enhance this dish even further. For an extra kick, try adding red pepper flakes or fresh herbs like basil.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Roasted Broccoli Veggie Pasta holds up well when prepared ahead of time, making it a practical option for meal prep. You can roast the broccoli and cook the pasta a day in advance; just store them separately to prevent sogginess. When you're ready to eat, reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, adding a splash of olive oil if needed to regain moisture.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you find the pasta has dried out, simply add a little broth or an extra drizzle of olive oil when reheating to bring back its moisture. For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta and broccoli mixture for up to a month. Just ensure you let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate the presentation of your Roasted Broccoli Veggie Pasta, consider garnishing with fresh herbs like basil or parsley. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving can also brighten the flavors, making the dish more vibrant. Pairing it with a side of garlic bread enhances the meal and provides a delightful contrast to the pasta's textures.

Additionally, this dish is incredibly versatile regarding pairing options. Enjoy it warm as a stand-alone meal, or serve it chilled as a refreshing pasta salad, perhaps adding cherry tomatoes and black olives for an extra flavor dimension. This adaptability makes it a fantastic option for potlucks or gatherings, where you can easily scale the recipe up or down.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! Any pasta shape you enjoy will work well, including gluten-free options.

→ What can I add for protein?

You can easily add cooked chicken, chickpeas, or tofu for a protein boost.

→ How long will leftovers last?

Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, leftovers will last up to 3 days.

→ Can this be made ahead of time?

Yes, prep the ingredients in advance, but it's best to roast the broccoli just before serving for optimal texture.