Pasta Primavera -

Pasta Primavera is a delightful Italian dish that celebrates fresh vegetables tossed with pasta and a light sauce, making it a go-to recipe for anyone looking for a quick, healthy meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. It’s packed with colorful veggies and can easily accommodate seasonal produce, making it a versatile option all year round. This recipe features ingredients like zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and broccoli, all coated in a flavorful garlic parmesan sauce.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This Pasta Primavera is not just healthy; it’s incredibly vibrant and full of texture, offering a perfect balance of carbs, fiber, and protein when paired with your choice of pasta. The garlic parmesan sauce adds just the right hint of richness while allowing the fresh vegetables to shine. Plus, it’s quick to make, taking under 30 minutes from start to finish — ideal for busy weeknights or when you have unexpected guests. It’s a crowd-pleaser that can easily be customized; you can add your favorite proteins like chicken or shrimp if you want to make it more filling.

Pro Tips for Making Pasta Primavera

To perfect your Pasta Primavera, here are a few tips:

Choose the Right Vegetables: Use seasonal, fresh vegetables for the best flavor. Feel free to substitute vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Ensure your pasta is al dente, so it maintains a nice bite, contrasting beautifully with the tender veggies.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, herbs, and parmesan will elevate the dish significantly.
Experiment with Herbs: Adding fresh basil, oregano, or parsley at the end will enhance the aroma and taste of your dish.
Adjust the Sauce: If you prefer a creamier consistency, feel free to add a splash of cream to the garlic parmesan sauce.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to whip up this delicious Pasta Primavera:

12 ounces pasta (penne, spaghetti, or fettuccine)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 zucchini, sliced
1 yellow squash, sliced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup broccoli florets
1 teaspoon salt

Directions

Step 1: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically about 8-10 minutes.

Step 2: While the pasta cooks, prepare the vegetables. Slice the zucchini, yellow squash, and red bell pepper, and halve the cherry tomatoes. Make sure to cut the broccoli into small florets for even cooking.

Step 3: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Step 4: Add the sliced zucchini, yellow squash, and red bell pepper to the skillet. Stir-fry the vegetables for about 4-5 minutes until they start to soften.

Step 5: Add the halved cherry tomatoes and broccoli florets to the skillet. Continue to stir-fry for an additional 3-4 minutes, mixing everything well.

Step 6: Once the vegetables are tender, season them with salt. Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables, tossing to combine.

Step 7: Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese over the pasta. Mix until the cheese melts and incorporates into the dish, forming a light sauce.

Step 8: Serve immediately, garnished with additional parmesan or fresh herbs if desired.

FAQs

Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen vegetables in a pinch. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as they will release more water than fresh veggies.

How do I store leftover Pasta Primavera?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or a skillet with a bit of water or olive oil to prevent drying.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute the parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese alternative, and use a suitable pasta.

What are some good protein additions?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas make excellent protein additions to Pasta Primavera. Simply cook them separately and stir them in with the pasta.

Can I make the sauce creamier?

For a creamier texture, add a splash of heavy cream or a bit of cream cheese when mixing in the parmesan.

Conclusion

Pasta Primavera is not only a wonderful celebration of fresh vegetables but also an adaptable and quick meal that fits seamlessly into any busy lifestyle. With vibrant flavors, the delightful crunch of different vegetables, and a light garlic parmesan sauce, it’s a dish you and your family will reach for again and again. Embrace the colors and flavors in this dish, and feel free to get creative with seasonal additions! Get the full recipe here.