Pasta Primavera

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pasta Primavera is a healthy, quick, and versatile dish. It’s packed with colorful vegetables, making it both visually appealing and nutritious. You can easily adjust the recipe to suit your dietary preferences, whether you want to keep it vegan, add protein, or make it creamier. The best part? It’s simple to make and can be ready in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight or a light weekend meal.

Ingredients

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

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 cup zucchini, sliced into half moons

• 1 cup asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces

• 1/2 cup red bell pepper, sliced thin

• 1/2 cup carrots, julienned or shredded

• 1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)

• Optional: fresh basil or parsley for garnish

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

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and then drain.

2. Sauté the Vegetables: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Add Harder Vegetables: Add carrots, bell pepper, and zucchini to the skillet. Cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Add Softer Vegetables: Stir in asparagus, peas, and cherry tomatoes. Continue cooking for another 3–4 minutes, until vegetables are just tender.

5. Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with a splash of the reserved pasta water. Toss to combine and coat the pasta evenly with the vegetables.

6. Season and Serve: Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, if using. Toss with Parmesan and garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes 4 servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Creamy Primavera: Add a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese for a creamy sauce.

• Vegan Version: Skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative like nutritional yeast.

• Add Protein: Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a heartier meal.

• Cheese Boost: Use goat cheese or feta for extra creaminess and flavor.

• Low-Carb Option: Replace pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a lower-carb version.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or olive oil to refresh the sauce. Avoid using the microwave to prevent the vegetables from becoming soggy.

FAQs

1. What does “Primavera” mean?

“Primavera” means “spring” in Italian, and the dish typically features spring and summer vegetables.

2. Can I use frozen vegetables?

While fresh is best, you can use frozen vegetables in a pinch. Just be sure to thaw and drain them before cooking.

3. What pasta works best for Pasta Primavera?

Short pastas like penne and farfalle or long ones like spaghetti and fettuccine all work well.

4. Can I add a protein to this dish?

Yes, grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu are great additions to make it more filling.

5. Is this dish vegan?

It can be—just omit the Parmesan or replace it with a vegan alternative.

6. What other herbs can I use?

Basil and parsley are traditional, but thyme, oregano, or chives are also great options.

7. Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the veggies ahead of time and cook the pasta just before serving to maintain the best texture.

8. Can I serve it cold?

Yes, Pasta Primavera is also great served chilled as a pasta salad with a light vinaigrette.

9. How do I avoid overcooking the vegetables?

Add them to the pan in stages—start with the firmer vegetables and end with the more delicate ones.

Conclusion

Pasta Primavera is a delicious and adaptable dish that showcases the best of fresh vegetables. It’s quick to prepare, perfect for a meatless meal, and full of vibrant flavors. Whether you keep it light and simple or add extra richness with cream or cheese, this dish is a perfect addition to your weekly meal plan. Enjoy the fresh, seasonal flavors in every bite!

Pasta Primavera

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• Author: Amy
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegan

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Description

Pasta Primavera is a vibrant and healthy pasta dish filled with fresh, crisp vegetables and tossed in a simple garlic and olive oil sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light weekend meal, this dish is versatile and can easily be made creamy, vegan, or protein-packed. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s an easy and flavorful way to enjoy seasonal vegetables.

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Ingredients

12 oz pasta (penne, spaghetti, or farfalle)

2 tbsp olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup zucchini, sliced into half moons

1 cup asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces

1/2 cup red bell pepper, thinly sliced

1/2 cup carrots, julienned or shredded

1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed

Salt and pepper, to taste

1/2 tsp Italian seasoning (optional)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)

Optional: fresh basil or parsley for garnish

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Instructions

• Cook the Pasta: Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.

• Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

• Add Harder Vegetables: Add carrots, bell pepper, and zucchini to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.

• Add Softer Vegetables: Stir in asparagus, peas, and cherry tomatoes. Continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes, until vegetables are just tender.

• Combine with Pasta: Add cooked pasta to the skillet, along with a splash of reserved pasta water. Toss to combine and coat the pasta evenly with vegetables.

• Season and Serve: Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning (if using). Toss with Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

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Notes

For a creamy version, add a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese.

For a vegan version, omit the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative like nutritional yeast.

To add protein, consider grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.

For a low-carb option, swap pasta for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.