🍝 Mediterranean Pasta with Roasted Vegetables
🥣 Ingredients (Serves 4)
🍆 For the Roasted Vegetables
1 small eggplant, cubed
1 zucchini, sliced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 red onion, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt & black pepper to taste
🍝 For the Pasta
250 g (8 oz) whole-grain or regular pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
2 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tbsp lemon juice
¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
2 tbsp chopped fresh basil or parsley
👩🍳 Instructions
✅ Step 1: Roast the Vegetables
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
Spread eggplant, zucchini, pepper, onion, and tomatoes on a baking tray.
Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle oregano, salt, and pepper.
Roast for 20–25 minutes, stirring halfway, until tender and slightly caramelized.
✅ Step 2: Cook the Pasta
While vegetables roast, cook pasta according to package directions.
Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of the pasta water.
✅ Step 3: Combine Everything
In a large pan, heat olive oil and sauté garlic for 30 seconds.
Add roasted vegetables and toss with the cooked pasta.
Pour in lemon juice and a splash of reserved pasta water for moisture.
Stir in feta cheese and herbs.
✅ Step 4: Serve
Serve warm, topped with extra feta, olive oil drizzle, and fresh basil.
Pairs perfectly with:
🥗 Greek salad or hummus
🍋 Lemon water or iced herbal tea
💚 Health & Nutrition Benefits
| Ingredient | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Whole-grain pasta | High in fiber — keeps you full and balances blood sugar. |
| Vegetables | Packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber. |
| Olive oil | Healthy fats that improve heart and brain function. |
| Feta cheese | Adds protein and calcium with minimal fat. |
| Lemon juice & herbs | Boost flavor and digestion naturally. |
✅ Healthy Tips
🧄 Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
🌿 Use zucchini noodles or chickpea pasta for a gluten-free version.
🍅 Roast extra veggies and store for meal prep — lasts up to 4 days in the fridge.
🧊 Tastes great hot or cold — perfect for lunch boxes or picnics!


