Pasta with Roasted Fennel

Name: Pasta with Roasted Fennel
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 300g pasta of your choice; Salt, for boiling water; 2 large fennel bulbs, trimmed and sliced; 3 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup vegetable broth; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Pasta with Roasted Fennel is a delightful and aromatic dish that brings together the sweet, caramelized flavors of roasted fennel with perfectly cooked pasta. A simple yet elegant meal that's sure to impress!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-02T16:54:02.407Z

This dish combines the earthy flavors of roasted fennel with a light pasta, making it a perfect choice for a comforting meal any day of the week. The roasting process enhances the natural sweetness of the fennel, creating a harmonious balance with the pasta.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The sweet, caramelized flavor of roasted fennel adds a unique twist to traditional pasta dishes.
Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
A healthy and satisfying option that’s packed with flavor.

      

The Power of Fennel

Fennel is a unique vegetable that offers a combination of sweet and anise-like flavors, making it a wonderful addition to a variety of dishes. When roasted, fennel becomes even sweeter, developing a caramelized exterior that enhances its natural taste. This dish highlights fennel's versatility, showing how it can elevate a simple pasta meal into something extraordinary.

In addition to its delightful flavor, fennel is packed with nutrients. It's a great source of fiber, vitamin C, and potassium, contributing to a healthy diet. Incorporating roasted fennel into your meals not only adds flavor but also boosts the nutritional value of your dish, making it a win-win for both taste and health.

Perfect Pasta Pairings

Choosing the right type of pasta can significantly affect the overall texture and flavor of the dish. While this recipe works well with various pasta shapes, consider using fettuccine or penne for a heartier bite. The grooves and ridges of these pasta types help to hold onto the sauce and roasted fennel, ensuring each bite is full of flavor.

Additionally, you can customize the pasta to fit your dietary preferences. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta options are excellent substitutes, allowing more people to enjoy this delicious meal. Experimenting with different pasta varieties can bring new dimensions to the dish, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.

Garnishing for Greatness

Garnishing your dish is not just for aesthetics; it adds layers of flavor that can elevate your meal. In this recipe, fresh parsley is used as a garnish, providing a burst of color and a hint of freshness that balances the richness of the roasted fennel and Parmesan cheese. Consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten up the dish further.

If you're looking to experiment, other garnishes such as toasted pine nuts or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can introduce additional textures and flavors. These small additions can transform your Pasta with Roasted Fennel into a dish that not only looks impressive but also excites the palate.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

300g pasta of your choice
Salt, for boiling water

For the Roasted Fennel

2 large fennel bulbs, trimmed and sliced
3 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon dried thyme

For the Sauce

2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup vegetable broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Make sure to select fresh fennel 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 thyme. Spread the fennel on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and caramelized.

Cook the Pasta

While the fennel is roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

Prepare the Sauce

In a skillet over medium heat, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Add the roasted fennel and cooked pasta, tossing to combine.

Finish the Dish

If the mixture is too dry, add some reserved pasta water. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Serve warm and enjoy your delicious pasta!

Storage and Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Pasta with Roasted Fennel, you're in luck! This dish stores well and can be enjoyed the next day. Simply place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you're ready to eat, you can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of vegetable broth or pasta water to keep it moist.

For longer storage, consider freezing the dish. Portion it into individual servings and store in freezer-safe containers. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat thoroughly before serving. This makes for a quick, flavorful meal on busy days.

Serving Suggestions

This Pasta with Roasted Fennel pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables, creating a well-rounded meal. A light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the sweetness of the fennel while adding a peppery kick. Alternatively, serve with crusty bread to soak up any remaining sauce.

For a more substantial meal, consider adding protein options such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. These additions can enrich the dish, making it satisfying for both meat lovers and vegetarians alike. Feel free to experiment with flavors and textures to create your perfect plate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat pasta instead?

Yes, whole wheat pasta works great and adds additional fiber.

→ What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?

You can use grated Pecorino Romano or a dairy-free alternative if needed.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! You can prepare the roasted fennel and pasta in advance and combine them when ready to serve.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.