Pasta with Roasted Fennel

Name: Pasta with Roasted Fennel
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 300g pasta (spaghetti or your choice); 2 medium fennels, trimmed and sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Grated parmesan cheese for serving; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Meal Recipes

Discover the delightful combination of roasted fennel and al dente pasta in this simple yet elegant dish.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-02T20:30:03.087Z

This Pasta with Roasted Fennel is a unique twist on traditional pasta dishes, offering a sweet and savory flavor profile that's hard to resist.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The sweet, caramelized flavor of roasted fennel adds a special touch
A perfect balance of textures with tender pasta and crunchy toppings
Quick and easy to make, making it ideal for weeknight dinners

      

The Unique Flavor of Fennel

Fennel is a unique vegetable that brings a sweet, anise-like flavor to dishes. When roasted, its natural sugars caramelize, intensifying its taste and adding a delightful depth to your pasta. This recipe transforms fennel into a star ingredient, showcasing its versatility and ability to elevate simple meals. Whether you're a fennel fan or trying it for the first time, you will be pleasantly surprised by its rich flavor profile.

Incorporating roasted fennel into pasta not only enhances the dish's taste but also adds a gorgeous visual appeal. The golden-brown slices contrast beautifully against the pasta, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. This dish is perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy dinner at home.

A Balanced Meal

This Pasta with Roasted Fennel recipe is not just delicious; it's also a well-rounded meal. The combination of carbohydrates from the pasta, fiber from the fennel, and healthy fats from the olive oil creates a nutritious dish that satisfies without weighing you down. It's an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy a wholesome meal that’s both filling and light.

Furthermore, fresh parsley adds a burst of color and a hint of earthiness, enhancing the overall flavor. This dish can stand alone or be paired with a light salad to round out your dining experience. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet elegant enough for special occasions.

Customization Options

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its adaptability. Feel free to customize the dish based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost, or toss in seasonal vegetables like cherry tomatoes or spinach for added nutrition and flavor. The possibilities are endless!

If you're looking to make it vegan, simply omit the parmesan cheese or substitute it with a dairy-free alternative. You can also adjust the spice level by varying the amount of red pepper flakes, or leave them out entirely for a milder dish. This recipe is a canvas where you can express your culinary creativity.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

300g pasta (spaghetti or your choice)
2 medium fennels, trimmed and sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Grated parmesan cheese for serving
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Roast the Fennel

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a bowl, toss the sliced fennel with olive oil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Spread out on a baking sheet and roast for about 25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.

Cook the Pasta

While the fennel is roasting, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

Combine and Serve

In a large bowl, mix the drained pasta with the roasted fennel. Add reserved pasta water as needed to create a light sauce. Top with grated parmesan and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy your delicious pasta dish that celebrates the unique flavor of fennel!

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover Pasta with Roasted Fennel can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the dish's texture, reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to bring moisture back into the pasta. If you prefer, you can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between until heated through.

If you find that the pasta has absorbed too much moisture during storage, a little extra olive oil can help revive it. Just remember that the quality is best when enjoyed fresh, so try to only make as much as you need for your meal.

Pairing Suggestions

This delightful pasta dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, which complements the sweetness of the roasted fennel. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a splash of lemon can refresh your palate and enhance your dining experience.

For sides, consider a light arugula salad dressed with a simple lemon vinaigrette. The peppery arugula balances the sweetness of the fennel, creating a harmonious meal. Alternatively, crusty garlic bread can add a comforting touch, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.

Nutritional Benefits of Fennel

Fennel is not just a tasty addition to your pasta; it also packs a nutritional punch. This vegetable is rich in vitamins C and A, along with dietary fiber, which supports digestive health. Its antioxidants help combat inflammation and contribute to overall well-being, making it a smart choice for health-conscious eaters.

Additionally, fennel contains essential minerals like potassium, which aids in regulating blood pressure, and manganese, which plays a role in bone health. By including fennel in your meals, you’re not only enhancing the flavor but also boosting the nutritional value of your diet.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any pasta shape you prefer will work well with this dish.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, it's completely vegetarian. You can make it vegan by omitting the cheese.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken or shrimp would be a great addition.