Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Healthy and nutritious – Loaded with fresh vegetables and packed with vitamins.
Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
Customizable – Use your favorite seasonal vegetables or whatever you have on hand.
Light yet satisfying – A great alternative to heavy, creamy pasta dishes.
Vibrant and colorful – An eye-catching dish that brings fresh flavors to the table.

Ingredients

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

Pasta (such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
Olive oil
Garlic, minced
Onion, chopped
Bell peppers (red, yellow, or green), sliced
Zucchini, sliced
Cherry tomatoes, halved
Broccoli florets
Carrots, julienned
Snap peas
Parmesan cheese, grated
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
Salt and black pepper
Red pepper flakes (optional)
Lemon juice (for a fresh touch)

Directions

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing until fragrant.
Add bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender.
Stir in broccoli, snap peas, and cherry tomatoes. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring the vegetables remain crisp-tender.
Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
Add the cooked pasta to the pan, tossing to combine. If needed, add a bit of reserved pasta water to help coat the pasta.
Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs. Squeeze in some lemon juice for a fresh finish.
Serve warm and enjoy.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Protein boost – Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein.
Creamy version – Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese.
Gluten-free option – Use gluten-free pasta for a celiac-friendly dish.
Spicy twist – Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
Extra flavor – Toss in sun-dried tomatoes or olives for a Mediterranean touch.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or olive oil to revive the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
Freezing: Not recommended, as the vegetables may become mushy when thawed.

FAQs

How can I prevent the vegetables from becoming too soft?

Cook them quickly over medium-high heat and avoid overcooking to maintain a crisp texture.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, but fresh vegetables provide better texture and flavor. If using frozen, thaw and drain excess moisture before cooking.

What is the best pasta for this recipe?

Short pasta like penne, rotini, or farfalle works well, but spaghetti or fettuccine can also be used.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! Just omit the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative.

What other herbs can I use?

Basil, parsley, thyme, or oregano all complement the flavors in this dish.

Can I add a sauce to this pasta?

Yes! A light cream sauce, pesto, or even a splash of marinara can enhance the flavor.

How do I add more protein without meat?

Try adding chickpeas, white beans, or a handful of nuts like almonds or walnuts.

What’s a good side dish for Pasta Primavera?

A fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables pair well with this dish.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, but for best results, store the sauce and pasta separately and combine when ready to serve.

How do I make it extra flavorful?

Use high-quality olive oil, fresh garlic, and a squeeze of lemon juice to enhance the taste.

Conclusion

Vegetable Pasta Primavera is a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make dish that celebrates fresh produce. Whether you’re looking for a light meal, a vegetarian option, or a quick dinner solution, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Try it today and enjoy a vibrant, flavor-packed pasta dish!

Vegetable Pasta Primavera

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Author: Ava
Total Time: 25min
Yield: 4servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Vegetable Pasta Primavera is a vibrant and healthy pasta dish loaded with fresh vegetables and tossed in a light sauce. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a nutritious lunch. Packed with color, flavor, and texture, it’s a great alternative to heavy pasta dishes.

Ingredients

12 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, chopped
1 cup bell peppers (red, yellow, or green), sliced
1 small zucchini, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup broccoli florets
½ cup carrots, julienned
½ cup snap peas
½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
¼ cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped
Salt and black pepper, to taste
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tbsp lemon juice

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Instructions

Cook Pasta – Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
Sauté Aromatics – In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing until fragrant.
Cook Vegetables – Add bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender.
Add More Veggies – Stir in broccoli, snap peas, and cherry tomatoes. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to keep vegetables crisp-tender.
Season & Toss – Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add the cooked pasta and toss well. If needed, add reserved pasta water for a light sauce.
Finish & Serve – Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Serve warm and enjoy!

Prep Time: 10min
Cook Time: 15min
Category: Side Dish
Method: Sautéing
Cuisine: Italian-American