Pasta Primavera
Pasta Primavera is a fresh and vibrant pasta dish featuring a variety of seasonal vegetables, tossed with al dente pasta and a light, savory sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a side dish, it’s easy to prepare, healthy, and bursting with flavor from the vegetables and fresh herbs. Customize the dish by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins like chicken or shrimp.
Equipment
- 1 Large pot (for cooking pasta)
- 1 large skillet for sautéing vegetables
- 1 pasta strainer
- 1 wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
- 1 cheese grater (if using fresh parmesan)
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup bell peppers sliced
- 1 cup zucchini sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk optional for creaminess
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes optional for spice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
- Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the sliced bell peppers, zucchini, and broccoli. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
- Stir in the cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until they soften.
Combine Pasta and Vegetables:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the vegetables.
- Pour in a splash of reserved pasta water to help coat the pasta. Stir everything together, ensuring the pasta is well mixed with the vegetables.
Finish the Dish:
- Stir in the grated parmesan cheese, fresh basil, and a drizzle of heavy cream if using.
- Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.
Serve:
- Serve immediately, garnished with more parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
Notes
- Vegetable Substitutions: Feel free to swap in other seasonal vegetables like asparagus, peas, or spinach.
- Make It Vegan: Omit the parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free substitute to make this dish vegan.
- Protein Additions: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a protein boost.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a little olive oil or pasta water to maintain its texture.