Pasta with Roasted Fennel

Name: Pasta with Roasted Fennel
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 400g pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine); 2 medium fennel bulbs, sliced; 3 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Cozy Bowls

Enjoy the delightful combination of roasted fennel and al dente pasta in this easy and flavorful dish.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-02T17:26:02.098Z

This Pasta with Roasted Fennel is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it an instant favorite for any pasta lover.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Aromatic and unique flavor from roasted fennel
Quick and easy to prepare for weeknight dinners
A satisfying vegetarian option that doesn't skimp on taste

      

The Flavor Profile of Roasted Fennel

Roasted fennel brings a unique and aromatic flavor to your pasta dish, setting it apart from traditional recipes. When fennel is roasted, its natural sweetness intensifies, while the anise-like notes become more mellow and savory. This transformation makes it an excellent addition to pasta, providing a delightful contrast to the richness of Parmesan cheese and the heat from red pepper flakes.

The combination of fennel with the pasta creates a dish that is not only satisfying but also full of complex flavors. The caramelization that occurs during roasting adds depth, ensuring each bite is packed with a gourmet taste that’s easy to achieve at home. Pair this with fresh herbs, and you have a dish that feels indulgent without being overly complicated.

Perfect for Weeknight Dinners

One of the best aspects of this Pasta with Roasted Fennel recipe is its simplicity, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious meal on the table in under 30 minutes. This allows you to spend more time with family or unwinding after a long day.

Additionally, the recipe is highly adaptable. You can easily incorporate seasonal vegetables or substitute different types of pasta based on what you have on hand. This flexibility not only saves time but also reduces food waste, making it a practical choice for any home cook.

A Satisfying Vegetarian Delight

For those seeking a hearty vegetarian dish, Pasta with Roasted Fennel is a standout option. It satisfies cravings for comfort food while being packed with nutrients. Fennel is rich in vitamins C and K, and when paired with whole grain pasta, it offers a balanced meal that is both nutritious and delicious.

This recipe is also a fantastic way to introduce more vegetables into your diet without sacrificing flavor. The rich taste of roasted fennel can win over even the most devoted carnivores, proving that vegetarian meals can be just as satisfying and indulgent as their meat-based counterparts.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Pasta

400g pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine)
2 medium fennel bulbs, sliced
3 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to use fresh fennel for the best flavor!

Instructions

Roast the Fennel

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the sliced fennel with olive oil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes on a baking sheet. Roast for 20 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.

Cook the Pasta

Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

Combine and Serve

In a large bowl, combine the drained pasta with the roasted fennel. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired sauce consistency. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Serve warm and enjoy your delicious pasta dish!

Tips for Perfectly Roasted Fennel

To achieve the best results when roasting fennel, make sure to cut the bulbs into even slices. This ensures that they cook uniformly and caramelize beautifully. If your slices are too thick, they may become chewy rather than tender.

Don’t skip the seasoning! A generous amount of olive oil, salt, and pepper is essential for enhancing the fennel’s flavor. Feel free to experiment with other herbs or spices, such as thyme or garlic, to customize the dish further.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. Consider a light vinaigrette to complement the flavors of the pasta without overwhelming them.

For wine lovers, a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied red, like Pinot Noir, can enhance the dining experience. These wines' acidity and fruitiness will balance the richness of the Parmesan and the sweetness of the roasted fennel.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld, making for even tastier leftovers. However, be aware that the pasta may absorb some moisture, so you might want to add a splash of water or extra olive oil when reheating.

To reheat, simply warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a bit of Parmesan before serving will refresh the dish beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes, grilled chicken or shrimp would complement the flavors beautifully.

→ What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?

Nutritional yeast is a great vegan alternative, or you can use any cheese you like.