Mediterranean Creamy Pesto Pasta with Roasted Cauliflower and Parmesan

Mediterranean Creamy Pesto Pasta with Roasted Cauliflower and Parmesan

This dish brings together the best of Mediterranean simplicity and bold flavors. Creamy pesto pasta, rich with basil and garlic, meets oven-roasted cauliflower—crispy on the outside, tender inside. Finished with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, this meal is hearty, comforting, and filled with fresh, earthy goodness. It’s a perfect vegetarian main course that’s easy enough for weeknights and elegant enough for company.

Time Overview

Ingredients

For the Roasted Cauliflower:

1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets

2 tablespoons olive oil

½ teaspoon smoked paprika

½ teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pasta:

12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, fusilli, or orecchiette work well)

Salted water, for boiling

For the Creamy Pesto Sauce:

½ cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)

½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half

2 tablespoons cream cheese or mascarpone (optional, for extra creaminess)

⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and black pepper to taste

Reserved pasta water (as needed to thin)

For Serving:

Extra Parmesan

Fresh basil or parsley (optional)

Lemon zest (optional, for brightness)

Chili flakes (optional, for heat)

Instructions

 Step 1: Roast the Cauliflower

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).

Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Spread on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer.

Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy on the edges.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.

Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Pesto Sauce

In a large skillet over low heat, combine pesto and cream.

Add cream cheese or mascarpone (if using) and stir until melted.

Stir in Parmesan and a few tablespoons of pasta water until smooth and glossy.

Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss in the sauce until coated.

Add roasted cauliflower and gently fold in.

Add more pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Serve hot, topped with extra Parmesan, herbs, lemon zest, and optional chili flakes.

Tips for Success

Roast until crispy: Let the cauliflower caramelize for deeper flavor and texture.

Use good-quality pesto: Homemade or deli-fresh pesto enhances the entire dish.

Cream cheese upgrade: A spoon of cream cheese or mascarpone adds silkiness to the sauce.

Save pasta water: It helps emulsify and stretch the sauce without thinning flavor.

Don’t overcrowd the pan: When roasting, spread cauliflower out so it roasts instead of steaming.

Variations

Vegan Option: Use a dairy-free pesto, coconut cream or oat cream, and skip the Parmesan or use vegan cheese.

Add protein: Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a protein boost.

Extra veggies: Add sun-dried tomatoes, sautéed spinach, or artichoke hearts for a more loaded dish.

Pasta swaps: Try whole wheat pasta, gluten-free pasta, or even gnocchi.

Nut-free pesto: Use sunflower seed or pumpkin seed pesto if avoiding nuts.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen cauliflower?
A: Yes, just make sure to thaw and dry it well before roasting to avoid sogginess.

Q: How long does this dish keep?
A: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of cream or water.

Q: Can I make it ahead?
A: You can roast the cauliflower and cook the pasta ahead, but combine everything fresh for best texture.

Q: Is this recipe kid-friendly?
A: Yes—it’s creamy, cheesy, and flavorful without being spicy. Omit chili flakes for sensitive palates.

Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving)

Note: Nutrition may vary based on pesto brand and exact ingredients used.

Conclusion

Mediterranean Creamy Pesto Pasta with Roasted Cauliflower and Parmesan is a lush, satisfying dish that brings together crispy roasted veggies, herby pesto, and a velvety sauce all in one beautiful bowl. It’s simple, balanced, and adaptable—perfect for both cozy nights in and impressive dinners with friends. Whether you stick to the classic or make it your own, this dish is bound to be a new favorite.