Pasta Primavera

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh and Healthy: Packed with a variety of vegetables, this dish offers a nutritious meal that’s both light and satisfying.​

• Versatile: Easily customizable with your choice of vegetables and pasta, making it perfect for using what’s in season or available.​

• Quick and Easy: With straightforward preparation and cooking steps, it’s ideal for a weeknight dinner or a last-minute gathering.​

• Flavorful: The combination of sautéed vegetables, aromatic herbs, and a light lemony sauce creates a delightful taste experience

Ingredients

• 12 ounces penne pasta​

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil​

• 3 cloves garlic, minced​

• 1 red onion, thinly sliced​

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strip

• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced into strips​

• 1 zucchini, sliced into half-moons​

• 1 yellow squash, sliced into half-moons​

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved​

• 1 cup broccoli florets​

• 1 cup asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces​

• 1 cup frozen peas, thawed​

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano​

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme​

• Zest and juice of 1 lemon​

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese​

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste​

• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish​

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.​

2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sliced red onion; sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent.​

3. Add Remaining Vegetables: Add the bell peppers, zucchini, yellow squash, broccoli, and asparagus to the skillet. Season with oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.​

4. Incorporate Tomatoes and Peas: Stir in the cherry tomatoes and peas; cook for an additional 2 minutes until warmed through.​

5. Combine Pasta and Vegetables: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour in the reserved pasta water, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Toss to combine, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated.​

6. Add Cheese and Serve: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and toss gently. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.​

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.​

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes​

• Cooking Time: 20 minutes​

Variations

• Protein Addition: Incorporate grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for added protein.​

• Creamy Sauce: For a richer flavor, add ½ cup of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese to the sauce.​

• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat.​

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary preferences.​

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.​

• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave on medium power until warmed through.​

FAQs

What is Pasta Primavera?

Pasta Primavera is a pasta dish that features fresh vegetables, often combined with a light sauce, celebrating the flavors of spring.​

Can I use different vegetables?

Yes, feel free to use any seasonal vegetables you prefer or have on hand.​

Is this dish vegetarian?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian. To make it vegan, omit the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative.

Can I make Pasta Primavera ahead of time?

While best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the vegetables and cook the pasta in advance. Combine and reheat just before serving.​

What type of pasta works best?

Short pasta shapes like penne, farfalle, or fusilli work well, but you can use any pasta you prefer.​

How do I prevent the vegetables from becoming mushy?

Cook the vegetables until tender-crisp to maintain their texture. Avoid overcooking.

Can I add a protein to this dish?

Yes, grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu are excellent additions for extra protein.​

What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?

Pecorino Romano or a vegan cheese substitute can be used in place of Parmesan.​

How can I make the sauce creamier?

Add a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of cream cheese for a creamier sauce.​

Is Pasta Primavera served hot or cold?

Traditionally, it’s served hot, but it can also be

Pasta Primavera

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• Author: Ava
• Total Time: 35min
• Yield: 4servings
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Pasta Primavera is a colorful, healthy pasta dish brimming with fresh seasonal vegetables and tossed in a light, lemony herb sauce. This quick and easy vegetarian recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, spring gatherings, or meatless Mondays. Customizable, delicious, and ready in just 35 minutes!

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Ingredients

• 12 ounces penne pasta




• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil




• 3 cloves garlic, minced




• 1 red onion, thinly sliced




• 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips




• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced into strips




• 1 zucchini, sliced into half-moons




• 1 yellow squash, sliced into half-moons




• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved




• 1 cup broccoli florets




• 1 cup asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces




• 1 cup frozen peas, thawed




• 1 teaspoon dried oregano




• 1 teaspoon dried thyme




• Zest and juice of 1 lemon




• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese




• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste




• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain.

2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté garlic and red onion for 2–3 minutes until soft and fragrant.

3. Add bell peppers, zucchini, yellow squash, broccoli, and asparagus. Season with oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5–7 minutes until tender-crisp.

4. Stir in cherry tomatoes and peas. Cook for 2 more minutes until just softened.

5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour in reserved pasta water, lemon zest, and juice. Toss everything to combine well.

6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the pasta and gently toss. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Notes

• Add red pepper flakes for heat.

• Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.

• To make it vegan, omit Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.

• Add protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a heartier meal.

• Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat gently with a splash of water or broth.

• Prep Time: 15min
• Cook Time: 20min
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Sautéing, Boiling
• Cuisine: Italian-American