Herb Roasted Veggie Pasta Skillet

Name: Herb Roasted Veggie Pasta Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 ounces pasta (penne or rotini work well); 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes); 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese for serving; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Basic Quick Meals Collection

I absolutely love making this Herb Roasted Veggie Pasta Skillet for dinner. The combination of fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs creates a dish that is bursting with flavor and color. It’s so easy to prepare, and I can have it on the table in less than 30 minutes! The best part is that I often use whatever veggies I have on hand, making it a versatile option for any day of the week. I can't wait to share this delightful recipe with you!

Created by

Marlowe Sinclair

Last updated on 2026-01-21T18:53:34.636Z

When I first created this dish, I wanted to make something simple yet satisfying that my family would enjoy. I experimented with various herbs and vegetables until I found the perfect balance. Roasting the vegetables brings out their natural sweetness, which complements the pasta beautifully. Trust me, the aroma that fills your kitchen while it cooks is simply irresistible!

I’ve found that using seasonal veggies not only enhances the flavor but also makes the dish more vibrant. A little sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil at the end elevates it even further. This is one of those recipes that you can always tweak according to what’s in your fridge, and that’s what I love most about it!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh vegetables roasted to perfection for maximum flavor
Quick and easy to customize with your favorite herbs
A wholesome, satisfying meal ready in just 30 minutes

Choosing the Right Vegetables

When it comes to this Herb Roasted Veggie Pasta Skillet, the type of vegetables you choose can significantly alter the dish's flavor profile and texture. Bell peppers provide sweetness, zucchini adds a mild, fresh crunch, and cherry tomatoes contribute juiciness and acidity. You can also experiment with other seasonal vegetables like asparagus, artichokes, or even leafy greens, depending on your preference and what you have available. Be sure to cut the vegetables into uniform sizes to ensure they cook evenly during roasting.

To find the best results, aim for a combination of both hard and soft vegetables. Harder vegetables like carrots and potatoes take longer to cook, while softer ones like zucchini and mushrooms roast quickly. If you decide to include harder veggies, consider par-cooking them briefly in boiling water before roasting to ensure everything finishes at the same time for a deliciously even roast.

The Importance of Herb Selection

Herbs play a vital role in enhancing the flavors of this dish. While dried oregano and thyme are classic choices, you can easily swap them out for fresh herbs or experiment with alternatives like basil or rosemary for a different taste profile. If you're using fresh herbs, increase the quantity as they are less concentrated in flavor than dried herbs; about three times the amount would be a good start. This small adjustment can elevate your pasta skillet to a whole new level of freshness.

However, overloading on herbs can sometimes overwhelm the subtler vegetable flavors. I recommend starting with the suggested amounts and adjusting according to your personal taste preferences. Remember, you can always add more herbs, but it’s challenging to remove them once they’re in the dish.

Perfecting the Pasta Texture

The texture of the pasta is just as important as the flavors of the vegetables and herbs. Cooking your pasta to al dente means it should have a slight firmness when bitten, preventing it from becoming mushy after combining with the roasted veggies. Keep an eye on the cooking time and taste the pasta a minute or two before the package directions suggest; if it offers a bit of resistance, it’s ready. Always reserve some pasta water as it can be a lifesaver in achieving the perfect sauce consistency once combined with the roasted vegetables.

If you find that the mixture is too dry after adding the veggies, adding the reserved pasta water in small increments is a great way to adjust the consistency without making it too watery. This helps create a light, glossy coating that brings all the flavors together beautifully without drowning the dish.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Skillet

8 ounces pasta (penne or rotini work well)
2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes)
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water.

Roast the Vegetables

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, toss the mixed vegetables with olive oil, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast for 15-20 minutes, until tender and slightly caramelized.

Combine and Serve

In a large skillet, combine the cooked pasta and roasted veggies. If the mixture looks dry, add a splash of reserved pasta water. Stir well to combine and heat through. Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan and fresh parsley.

Pro Tips

Feel free to use any vegetables you have on hand. Broccoli and asparagus are great additions! Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Make-Ahead Tips

One of the best aspects of this Herb Roasted Veggie Pasta Skillet is how well it stores and reheats. You can roast the vegetables in advance and combine them with the pasta right before serving. Store the roasted veggies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld further, resulting in an even tastier dish when you're ready to enjoy it.

To reheat, simply warm the pasta and vegetables together in a skillet over medium heat, adding a dash of olive oil or reserved pasta water as needed to prevent sticking. This process takes about five minutes, ensuring you have a quick meal ready to go without sacrificing flavor or quality.

Serving Suggestions

To make your Herb Roasted Veggie Pasta Skillet even more satisfying, consider pairing it with some freshly baked garlic bread or a light green salad. The crisp textures and flavors of the salad will complement the hearty pasta, providing a balanced meal that feels both elegant and comforting. You can also add a protein, such as grilled chicken or shrimp, to make it a more substantial option for those with bigger appetites.

For a special touch, drizzle a little balsamic reduction over the top before serving. This adds a sweet tanginess that elevates the dish, making it feel restaurant-quality. My family loves this extra step, and it really does make a difference in presentation!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Just substitute regular pasta with a gluten-free variety.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas make excellent additions.

→ What herbs can I use instead of oregano and thyme?

Feel free to substitute with basil, rosemary, or any of your favorite herbs.