Penne Pasta Recipe with Halloumi Cheese and Roasted Vegetables

Are you searching for a mouth-watering, satisfying, and healthy meal option that caters to both vegetarians and pasta lovers alike? Look no further! Our recipe for penne pasta with halloumi cheese and roasted vegetables ticks all the boxes. This dish is not only incredibly delicious but also easy to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat. With the unique combination of the slightly salty, squeaky texture of halloumi cheese and the robust flavours of roasted vegetables, this vegetarian pasta with halloumi is a delightful addition to any recipe repertoire.

Why Choose This Recipe?

When it comes to pasta, there are countless ways to elevate a simple dish to something extraordinary. This roasted vegetable pasta with halloumi does just that. Using high-quality ingredients, such as organic vegetables and organic penne rigate, this recipe not only tastes great but is also good for you. Additionally, halloumi cheese adds a wonderful texture and a burst of flavour that complements the pasta and vegetables beautifully.

This recipe is inspired by the commitment to quality and sustainability at Originz, where the focus is on providing organic ingredients that enhance both flavour and health benefits. Using ingredients sourced from an organic grocery store ensures you are cooking with products that are free from harmful pesticides and GMOs, aligning with the Originz philosophy of clean and healthy eating.

Ingredients You Will Need

To create this delicious penne pasta with halloumi cheese, you will need the following ingredients:

• 300g of organic penne rigate

• 200g of halloumi cheese, sliced

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced

• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced

• 1 courgette, sliced

• 1 red onion, sliced

• 250g of cherry tomatoes, halved

• 3 cloves of garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons of olive oil

• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Why Go Organic?

Before we dive into the preparation, it's worth highlighting why choosing organic ingredients makes a difference. Organic foods, such as those available at an organic grocery store, are grown without synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs). This means you’re consuming food that's better for your health and the environment. Using organic vegetables and pasta not only boosts the nutritional value of your dish but also enhances its taste.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (400°F). Arrange the sliced bell peppers, courgette, red onion, and cherry tomatoes on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss the vegetables to ensure they are well-coated with the seasoning.

2. Roast the Vegetables: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the vegetables for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly caramelised. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables, enhancing the overall flavour of this roasted vegetable pasta with halloumi.

3. Cook the Pasta: While the vegetables are roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the organic penne rigate and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 10-12 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

4. Grill the Halloumi: While the pasta is cooking, heat a non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Place the slices of halloumi cheese in the pan and grill for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. The halloumi should have a crisp outer layer and a soft, chewy centre, adding a delightful texture to your vegetarian pasta with halloumi.

5. Combine All Ingredients: Once the vegetables are roasted, and the halloumi is grilled, it's time to bring everything together. In a large bowl, combine the cooked penne, roasted vegetables, and grilled halloumi. Toss gently to mix all the ingredients.

6. Garnish and Serve: Serve the penne pasta with halloumi cheese hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves. The freshness of the basil adds a lovely aromatic finish to the dish.

Tips for the Perfect Pasta Dish

• Opt for Fresh Ingredients: The quality of your ingredients directly impacts the taste of your dish. Whenever possible, use fresh, organic ingredients to ensure maximum flavour and nutrition.

• Do Not Overcook the Pasta: For the best texture, cook your pasta al dente. This means the pasta should be firm to the bite, offering a satisfying texture that complements the roasted vegetables and halloumi cheese.

• Experiment with Vegetables: While this recipe uses bell peppers, courgette, and cherry tomatoes, feel free to experiment with other vegetables like aubergine, mushrooms, or asparagus. This flexibility allows you to adapt the recipe to what's in season or available at your organic grocery store.

Nutritional Benefits

This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The roasted vegetables provide a rich source of vitamins and antioxidants, while the halloumi cheese offers a good dose of protein and calcium. The organic penne rigate is a healthier alternative to regular pasta, as it's made from high-quality organic wheat, providing a source of complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

What makes this roasted vegetable pasta with halloumi so appealing is its versatility. It’s a fantastic option for a family dinner, a gathering with friends, or even meal prepping for the week ahead. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy a meat-free meal without compromising on taste or satisfaction. The combination of flavours and textures in this vegetarian pasta with halloumi will surely become a favourite in your household.

For more delicious recipes that are both healthy and easy to prepare, be sure to explore more on the Originz website. You’ll find a range of dishes that cater to various dietary preferences, all made with the freshest, organic ingredients.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While this recipe calls for organic penne rigate, you can easily substitute it with any pasta of your choice, such as fusilli, rigatoni, or even spaghetti.

<H3>Is halloumi cheese suitable for vegans?

No, halloumi cheese is made from goat's and sheep's milk, so it is not suitable for vegans. However, you can substitute it with a plant-based cheese alternative to make this dish vegan-friendly.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make this roasted vegetable pasta with halloumi gluten-free, simply replace the organic penne rigate with a gluten-free pasta of your choice. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Enjoy this delightful and nutritious penne pasta with halloumi cheese and roasted vegetables, and don’t forget to share your cooking experiences with us and the Originz community!

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