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Pasta Primavera

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Pasta Primavera is a light and flavorful dish that celebrates fresh, seasonal vegetables sautéed with pasta in a simple yet delicious sauce. This vibrant, colorful dish is easy to make, customizable, and perfect for a healthy meal that’s both satisfying and delicious.

Ingredients

  1. 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne work well)
    1 tablespoon olive oil
    1 small zucchini, sliced
    1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
    1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
    1/2 cup broccoli florets (or asparagus, peas, or green beans)
    2 cloves garlic, minced
    1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or vegan cheese for a dairy-free version)
    1/4 cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional)
    Salt and pepper to taste
    1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional for brightness)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water, and set aside.

  1. Sauté the Vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the zucchini, bell pepper, and broccoli (or your choice of veggies). Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender but still crisp. Season with salt and pepper.
  2. Add the Garlic and Tomatoes: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the tomatoes soften.
  3. Toss the Pasta: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Toss to combine, adding a bit of the reserved pasta water to help the sauce come together. Stir in the Parmesan cheese (or vegan cheese) and mix until everything is well-coated. If you like a little more flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
  4. Garnish and Serve: Once everything is combined and heated through, remove the pan from the heat. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Notes

  • For a vegan version, omit the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
  • For extra protein, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
  • Feel free to substitute the vegetables with whatever is in season or to your liking, such as peas, asparagus, or spinach.
  • For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the sautéing vegetables or drizzle hot sauce over the finished dish.

Nutrition