If you’re looking for a delicious and nutritious meal that embodies the flavors of the Mediterranean, then this Grilled Vegetable and Olive Pasta recipe is a must-try. Packed with colorful veggies, savory olives, and al dente pasta, this dish is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visual delight. Perfect for a cozy dinner at home or a casual gathering with friends, this recipe captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine with its fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors.
**Grilled Vegetable And Olive Pasta**
**Ingredients:**
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 red onion, sliced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes
– 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
– Fresh basil leaves, torn, for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Preheat a grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush the zucchini, bell peppers, red onion, and cherry tomatoes with olive oil and season with salt and black pepper.
3. Grill the vegetables in batches until charred and tender, about 3-4 minutes per side. Once grilled, transfer them to a cutting board and chop them into bite-sized pieces.
4. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
5. Add the chopped grilled vegetables, kalamata olives, and dried oregano to the skillet. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Toss the cooked penne pasta with the grilled vegetable mixture until well combined. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil and toss again.
7. Serve the Grilled Vegetable and Olive Pasta hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and torn basil leaves on top.
Enjoy this delightful dish with a glass of crisp white wine or a refreshing lemonade for the perfect Mediterranean-inspired meal. The smoky flavors from the grilled vegetables, paired with the briny goodness of the kalamata olives, create a harmonious blend that will transport your taste buds to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice cook, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy your cravings for a cozy and flavorful dish. So gather your loved ones, fire up the grill, and savor the taste of summer with this Grilled Vegetable and Olive Pasta recipe.