Pasta Primavera 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pasta Primavera is the ultimate celebration of fresh vegetables. It’s easy to make, quick to prepare, and highly customizable depending on what you have on hand. The combination of tender-crisp vegetables, al dente pasta, and a light, garlicky sauce makes it delicious without being heavy. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy more veggies while still indulging in a comforting pasta dish.

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti work well)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 small red bell pepper, sliced

• 1 small yellow squash, sliced

• 1 small zucchini, sliced

• 1 cup broccoli florets

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1/2 cup peas (fresh or frozen)

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

• Juice of 1 lemon

• 2 tablespoons fresh basil or parsley, chopped

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

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.

2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

3. Add garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.

4. Add the bell pepper, zucchini, yellow squash, and broccoli. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until vegetables are tender-crisp.

5. Stir in the cherry tomatoes and peas, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes soften slightly.

6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the vegetables. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce as needed.

7. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.

8. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs. Serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 15 minutes

• Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Vegan Option: Skip the Parmesan or use a vegan cheese alternative.

• Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta.

• Creamy Primavera: Add a splash of cream or a dollop of ricotta for a richer sauce.

• Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to make it a heartier meal.

• Different Veggies: Use what you have—carrots, asparagus, mushrooms, or spinach are all great additions.

Storage/Reheating

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

• Freezing: Not ideal, as the fresh vegetables can become mushy once thawed.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring between intervals.

FAQs

1. What does “Primavera” mean in Pasta Primavera?

“Primavera” means “spring” in Italian, referring to the dish’s use of fresh spring vegetables.

2. Can I use frozen vegetables for Pasta Primavera?

Yes, but fresh vegetables provide better texture and flavor. If using frozen, thaw and drain them before adding to the skillet.

3. Is Pasta Primavera vegetarian?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian. For a vegan version, simply omit the cheese or use a dairy-free substitute.

4. What pasta shape is best for Primavera?

Penne, spaghetti, fettuccine, or farfalle all work well. Choose your favorite!

5. How can I make this dish more filling?

Add a protein source like grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make it more substantial.

6. Can I add a creamy sauce?

Absolutely. Add a splash of cream, or stir in a spoonful of ricotta or mascarpone cheese for a creamy texture.

7. What herbs go well in Pasta Primavera?

Fresh basil and parsley are classic choices, but thyme or oregano also work well.

8. Is this dish good for meal prep?

Yes, it’s great for meal prep. Just store the pasta and veggies together and reheat before serving.

9. How do I prevent the vegetables from overcooking?

Cook them just until tender-crisp and be sure to add quicker-cooking veggies (like peas and tomatoes) toward the end.

10. Can I serve this dish cold?

While it’s best served warm, Pasta Primavera also tastes great as a cold pasta salad the next day.

Conclusion

Pasta Primavera is a vibrant, nourishing, and flavorful dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. It’s a perfect way to enjoy fresh vegetables in a comforting, satisfying meal. With easy customization and quick preparation, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Pasta Primavera 

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Pasta Primavera is a vibrant, fresh pasta dish featuring tender-crisp vegetables and a light, garlicky sauce. Perfect for spring and summer, this colorful meal is customizable and quick to make.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Pasta
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 small red bell pepper, sliced

1 small yellow squash, sliced

1 small zucchini, sliced

1 cup broccoli florets

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/2 cup peas (fresh or frozen)

3 cloves garlic, minced

Salt and pepper to taste

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Juice of 1 lemon

2 tablespoons fresh basil or parsley, chopped

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Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the bell pepper, zucchini, yellow squash, and broccoli. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Stir in the cherry tomatoes and peas, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes soften slightly.
6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
8. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs. Serve warm.

Notes

• For a vegan option, skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free substitute.
• Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
• For a creamy version, add a splash of cream or ricotta.
• Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for more protein.
• Feel free to mix and match vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 41g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 9g
• Cholesterol: 10mg