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#### Instructions
Follow these steps to prepare your Roasted Veggie Pasta with Feta:
**Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Vegetables**
1. Preheat your oven to **400°F (200°C)**. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the vegetables: slice the **carrots**, **zucchini**, **bell pepper**, **red onion**, and **cherry tomatoes** as described in the ingredient list.
3. Place all the vegetables on the baking sheet. Drizzle with **2 tablespoons of olive oil** and sprinkle with **garlic powder**, **dried oregano**, **salt**, and **pepper**. Toss the vegetables to ensure they are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.
**Step 2: Roast the Vegetables**
1. Roast the vegetables in the preheated oven for **25-30 minutes**, stirring once halfway through. The vegetables should be tender and slightly caramelized when done. Keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.
**Step 3: Cook the Pasta**
1. While the vegetables are roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the **pasta** and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain the pasta, reserving a small cup of pasta water to use later if needed for the dressing or sauce.
**Step 4: Prepare the Dressing**
1. In a small bowl, whisk together **2 tablespoons of olive oil**, **1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar** (or lemon juice), **1 teaspoon of honey** (if using), **1 teaspoon of dried oregano**, and **salt and pepper** to taste.
**Step 5: Combine the Pasta and Roasted Vegetables**
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the roasted vegetables. If the pasta seems dry, add a little of the reserved pasta water or a splash more olive oil.
2. Drizzle the dressing over the pasta and vegetables, tossing everything to coat evenly.
**Step 6: Garnish and Serve**
1. Top the roasted veggie pasta with crumbled **feta cheese** and garnish with fresh herbs such as **basil** or **parsley**.
2. Serve immediately while warm, or refrigerate and enjoy it cold as a pasta salad.
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### Tips and Variations
To make **Roasted Veggie Pasta with Feta** even more exciting, here are a few tips and variations you can try:
#### 1. **Add Protein**
If you’d like to add more protein to the dish, consider adding grilled **chicken**, **shrimp**, or even **chickpeas** for a plant-based option. This will make the dish more filling and suitable for a hearty lunch or dinner.
#### 2. **Switch Up the Vegetables**
Feel free to get creative with the vegetables you include in the dish. You can try adding **eggplant**, **sweet potatoes**, **asparagus**, or **spinach**. Roasting different vegetables will create unique flavor combinations each time you make the dish.
#### 3. **Use Fresh Herbs**
While dried oregano works well, fresh herbs can elevate the dish even more. Add **fresh basil**, **thyme**, or **parsley** as a finishing touch for added flavor and color.
#### 4. **Make it Vegan**
To make the dish vegan, simply skip the feta cheese or substitute it with a vegan feta alternative. You could also try adding a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
#### 5. **Make it Spicy**
If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of **red pepper flakes** to the roasted vegetables or toss the pasta with a dash of **hot sauce** or **sriracha** for a spicy kick.
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### Conclusion
**Roasted Veggie Pasta with Feta** is a delightful dish that brings together the richness of roasted vegetables, the comfort of pasta, and the tanginess of feta cheese in a harmonious blend of flavors. Not only is it a nourishing meal, but it’s also incredibly easy to make and customize to your liking.
This dish offers an abundance of health benefits, from the fiber-packed vegetables to the protein-rich pasta and the heart-healthy olive oil. It’s an ideal recipe for anyone looking to enjoy a wholesome, satisfying meal that is full of flavor without being heavy.
Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or meal prep for the week ahead, **Roasted Veggie Pasta with Feta** is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy the burst of flavors and textures with each bite—this recipe is the perfect balance of delicious and nutritious!
