Introduction
Looking for a delicious and healthy meal that’s perfect for summer? Look no further than grilled vegetable pasta with olive oil and basil! This vibrant dish is packed with flavor, easy to make, and a great way to use up those garden-fresh vegetables. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that everyone will love. We’ll guide you through creating a mouthwatering pasta dish that captures the essence of fresh, seasonal ingredients. This recipe highlights the natural sweetness of grilled vegetables complemented by the aromatic touch of basil and the richness of extra virgin olive oil.
Making the Best Grilled Vegetable Pasta
Choosing Your Vegetables
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Feel free to experiment with your favorite vegetables! However, some vegetables grill better than others. Here are a few suggestions:
- Bell Peppers: Red, yellow, and orange bell peppers offer sweetness and vibrant color.
- Zucchini and Summer Squash: These grill quickly and absorb the smoky flavor beautifully.
- Eggplant: Slice it thinly for even grilling.
- Red Onion: Adds a touch of sharpness that mellows as it grills.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Thread them on skewers for easy grilling and burst of flavor.
- Asparagus: A classic grilling vegetable with a slightly grassy flavor.
Preparing and Grilling the Vegetables
Proper preparation is key to perfectly grilled vegetables:
- Wash and Cut: Wash all vegetables thoroughly and cut them into uniform sizes (about ½-inch thick) to ensure even cooking.
- Toss with Olive Oil and Seasoning: In a large bowl, toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings (garlic powder, Italian herbs).
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat.
- Grill the Vegetables: Grill the vegetables in batches, turning occasionally, until they are tender and slightly charred (about 3-5 minutes per side, depending on the vegetable).
- Remove and Cool Slightly: Remove the grilled vegetables from the grill and let them cool slightly before chopping them into bite-sized pieces.
Cooking the Pasta and Assembling the Dish
Now for the pasta!
- Cook the Pasta: Cook your favorite pasta according to package directions. Penne, fusilli, or rotini are excellent choices because their shapes hold the sauce well. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, grilled vegetables, fresh basil (chopped), and extra virgin olive oil. Toss gently to combine.
- Adjust Consistency: If the pasta seems dry, add a little of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Season to Taste: Season with additional salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve Immediately: Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese (optional).
Adding Extra Flavor
Want to elevate your grilled vegetable pasta? Try these additions:
- Grilled Chicken or Shrimp: Add some protein for a more substantial meal.
- Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta cheese adds a salty and tangy element.
- Pine Nuts: Toasted pine nuts provide a nutty crunch.
- Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors.
- Red Pepper Flakes: For a touch of heat.
Conclusion
Grilled vegetable pasta with olive oil and basil is a simple, healthy, and delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. By using fresh, seasonal ingredients and following these simple steps, you can create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and sure to impress. This recipe is incredibly adaptable, so feel free to experiment with different vegetables and flavor combinations to create your own signature version. Enjoy!
