Chargrilled Vegetable Pasta Recipe for Easy Healthy Meals

There’s something truly magical about the smoky, chargrilled flavor of fresh vegetables combined with perfectly cooked pasta. This chargrilled vegetable pasta recipe brings together the best of summer’s bounty with a vibrant, healthy twist that’s both satisfying and delicious.

Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a casual get-together, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The chargrilled vegetables add a depth of flavor and a touch of caramelization that elevates the pasta beyond the ordinary.

What makes this recipe stand out is its versatility – you can use whatever seasonal vegetables you have on hand and customize the herbs and spices to your liking. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients, making it a wholesome option for vegetarians and anyone looking to eat more plant-based meals.

This recipe is also a perfect gateway into the world of grilling veggies, offering tips on how to get that perfect char every time. Ready to fire up the grill and create something amazing?

Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chargrilled vegetable pasta recipe is a celebration of fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Here’s why it’s sure to become a favorite:

• Smoky, rich flavors: The chargrilled vegetables add a wonderful smoky depth that enhances the entire dish.
• Healthy and nutritious: Loaded with fiber-rich veggies and whole-grain pasta, it’s both filling and good for you.
• Easy to customize: Swap in your favorite vegetables or herbs, or add a protein for extra heartiness.
• Quick and simple: Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining without sacrificing taste.
• Great served warm or at room temperature: Ideal for picnics, potlucks, or leftovers.

Ingredients

• 250g pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti work well)
• 1 medium zucchini, sliced lengthwise
• 1 red bell pepper, quartered
• 1 yellow bell pepper, quartered
• 1 medium eggplant, sliced into rounds
• 1 red onion, cut into thick wedges
• 200g cherry tomatoes, whole
• 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish
• Grated vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast (optional)

Equipment

• Grill pan or outdoor grill (charcoal or gas)
• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Colander to drain pasta
• Mixing bowl
• Tongs or spatula for turning vegetables
• Knife and cutting board
• Serving bowl or plates

Instructions

1. Prepare the vegetables: Wash and slice the zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers. Cut the red onion into thick wedges and keep the cherry tomatoes whole. Place all vegetables in a large mixing bowl.
2. Season the vegetables: Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the vegetables, add minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Toss everything gently until well coated.
3. Preheat the grill: Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. You want it hot enough to get nice char marks but not so hot that the vegetables burn.
4. Chargrill the vegetables: Place the vegetables on the grill, turning occasionally. Grill the zucchini, eggplant, and peppers for about 4-5 minutes per side until tender and charred. The onion wedges and cherry tomatoes will take less time—about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the grill and set aside.
5. Cook the pasta: While the vegetables are grilling, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and return to the pot.
6. Combine pasta and vegetables: Chop the grilled vegetables into bite-sized pieces if needed. Add the chargrilled vegetables into the pot with the pasta. Drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the mixture and toss gently to combine.
7. Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. If you like, sprinkle with grated vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
8. Serve: Transfer the pasta to serving plates or a large bowl. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and an extra drizzle of olive oil if desired. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Tips & Variations

“For the best chargrilled flavor, make sure your grill is properly preheated and don’t overcrowd the pan or grill rack. Give each vegetable enough space to make direct contact with the heat.”

• Vegetable swaps: Feel free to add mushrooms, asparagus, or even corn on the cob cut into smaller pieces.
• Add protein: Toss in chickpeas, grilled tofu, or vegan sausage slices for a heartier meal.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red chili flakes or try the Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend to give your pasta a subtle kick.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary can be great alternatives or additions to basil and oregano.
• Use whole grain or legume pasta: For extra fiber and protein, try chickpea or lentil pasta varieties, which also pair well with chargrilled veggies. Explore more in Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This chargrilled vegetable pasta makes a fantastic main dish on its own, but you can also pair it with some light sides to complete the meal:

• A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette to balance the smoky flavors.
• Crusty garlic bread or a vegan focaccia for dipping.
• A chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with fresh mint for refreshment.
• For a complete vegan Italian dinner, consider trying this alongside Cheeseless Vegetarian Lasagna Recipe That Tastes Amazing.

Conclusion

Embracing the flavors of chargrilled vegetables in a pasta dish is a wonderful way to enjoy a meal that’s both wholesome and packed with vibrant taste. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also endlessly adaptable, perfect for cooks of all skill levels.

The smoky char enhances each vegetable’s natural sweetness, creating a harmony of flavors that pairs beautifully with the tender pasta. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this dish delivers satisfaction with every bite.

For more plant-based inspiration and creative ways to use vegetables, be sure to explore our collection of Amazing Vegan Pasta Recipes for Easy Delicious Meals and A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion.

Cooking healthy, flavorful meals has never been this enjoyable!

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