Pasta with Roasted Fennel

If you’re on the hunt for a dish that’s both simple to prepare and bursting with fresh, comforting flavors, then this Pasta with Roasted Fennel recipe is your new best friend. Combining the natural sweetness of slowly roasted fennel with perfectly cooked pasta, this dish strikes the perfect balance of savory and aromatic, ideal for any weeknight dinner or casual gathering. You’ll love how each bite delivers that subtle anise-like flavor paired with a satisfying texture, making it not only easy but incredibly delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortlessly Delicious: It requires minimal prep work yet yields a richly flavored meal that tastes gourmet.
• Healthy Comfort Food: Roasted fennel adds vitamins and fiber, enhancing nutrition without compromising taste.
• Flexible and Adaptable: Easy to tweak for dietary preferences, whether you want it vegan, gluten-free, or extra cheesy.
• Great for Busy Nights: This recipe fits perfectly into hectic evenings with its straightforward ingredients and quick roasting process.
• Elegant and Inviting: The natural sweetness of roasted fennel paired with pasta creates a cozy, inviting dish everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple yet essential, each bringing its own role in flavor, texture, and color to this Pasta with Roasted Fennel. You’ll see how combining just a handful of pantry staples and fresh produce can make a dish truly shine.

• Fennel Bulbs: Fresh fennel is the star, providing sweetness and a subtle licorice note after roasting.
• Pasta of Choice: Use spaghetti, linguine, or any shape that holds sauce well and complements the roasted vegetables.
• Olive Oil: A good quality olive oil enhances flavor and helps the fennel caramelize beautifully.
• Garlic Cloves: Adds a punchy aroma and depth of flavor, balancing the fennel’s sweetness.
• Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkled on top, it offers a salty, savory finish that brings the dish together.
• Lemon Juice: A splash brightens the entire plate, cutting through richness with vibrant citrus notes.
• Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings that elevate every ingredient without overpowering the delicate fennel.

Variations for Pasta with Roasted Fennel

Feel free to personalize this recipe! Its flexible nature makes swapping or adding ingredients a breeze, allowing you to tailor it to what you have on hand or your dietary needs.

• Add Protein: Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to boost the protein content and make it more filling.
• Vegan Twist: Skip the cheese and use nutritional yeast or a drizzle of tahini for creamy umami flavors.
• Add Greens: Stir in baby spinach or arugula at the end for a fresh, peppery contrast.
• Spice It Up: Include red pepper flakes or a dash of chili oil to give the dish a gentle kick.
• Herb Boost: Fresh parsley, basil, or dill elevate the aroma and add vibrant color to the finished plate.

How to Make Pasta with Roasted Fennel

Step 1: Prepare the Fennel

Begin by trimming the fennel bulbs, removing the stalks, and slicing the bulbs into thin wedges. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread evenly on a baking sheet. Roast in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes until tender and caramelized around the edges.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the fennel roasts, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining to help with the sauce later.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant but not browned. Add the roasted fennel to the skillet, stirring gently to combine flavors.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Fennel

Add the drained pasta to the skillet with fennel and garlic. Toss well, adding reserved pasta water little by little to create a light, silky sauce that clings to every strand or piece of pasta.

Step 5: Finish with Flavor

Remove from heat and stir in freshly squeezed lemon juice for brightness. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top, add fresh ground pepper to taste, and gently toss everything to blend all the elements together beautifully.

Pro Tips for Making Pasta with Roasted Fennel

• Roast Fennel Evenly: Slice fennel uniformly and avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure perfect caramelization.
• Save Pasta Water: The starchy water helps bind the sauce, giving it a luscious texture without heavy cream.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Adds a bright, punchy flavor—avoid pre-minced garlic for best results.
• Adjust Lemon to Taste: Start with a little; you can always add more for extra zing without overpowering the fennel.
• Choose Quality Parmesan: Freshly grated cheese melts better and enhances the overall dish.

How to Serve Pasta with Roasted Fennel

Garnishes

Top with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil to add a vibrant color and fresh aroma. A few flakes of chili or extra Parmesan cheese provide a nice visual and flavor lift.

Side Dishes

This pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or a crusty loaf of garlic bread to soak up any remaining sauce. Roasted vegetables or a light soup are also excellent companions.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve Pasta with Roasted Fennel in shallow bowls to showcase its colorful simplicity. Add a drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a spoonful of ricotta on top for an elegant touch that invites everyone to dig in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place cooled leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making it even tastier the next day.

Freezing

This pasta freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to prevent drying out. Microwaving works too—just cover loosely to retain moisture and heat evenly.

FAQs

Can I use fennel seeds instead of fresh fennel?

Fennel seeds have a stronger, more concentrated flavor and a different texture, so they’re not a direct substitute for fresh roasted fennel in this dish.

Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?

Absolutely! Just omit the Parmesan or swap it with a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Long strands like spaghetti or linguine work beautifully, but you can use any shape you prefer depending on the texture and mouthfeel you want.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or even cherry tomatoes make lovely additions to complement the fennel and add more color.

How long does it take to roast fennel?

Generally, fennel takes about 25-30 minutes at 400°F to become tender and caramelized, but always check and adjust based on your oven and slice thickness.

Final Thoughts

Pasta with Roasted Fennel is a truly satisfying meal that combines ease and elegance in one bowl. Its harmonious flavors and simple ingredients make it an instant favorite you’ll come back to again and again. Give it a try, and watch how this unique, cozy dish quickly becomes a go-to recipe for your weeknights.

Related Posts

• Chicken Marbella
• Ricotta Meatballs with Tomato Sauce
• Salmon and Spinach Rice Bowl with Green Tea Broth

Print