Description
Pasta Primavera is a fresh and vibrant Italian main course featuring tender pasta tossed with a colorful medley of seasonal vegetables in a light garlic olive oil sauce, finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs. This quick and wholesome stovetop dish is perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner that pleases the whole family.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
Vegetables and Herbs
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup peas
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil or parsley, chopped
Other Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Sauté garlic: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Cook vegetables: Add the broccoli florets, sliced zucchini, and bell peppers to the skillet. Sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp, maintaining their vibrant color and texture.
- Add remaining vegetables: Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and peas, cooking for an additional 2 minutes to warm them through.
- Season: Sprinkle the salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) over the vegetables and stir well to combine and evenly distribute the flavors.
- Toss pasta and vegetables: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the vegetables, tossing to combine thoroughly. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time as needed to loosen the sauce and help it coat the pasta evenly.
- Finish with cheese and herbs: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh herbs until well incorporated and creamy.
- Serve: Serve the Pasta Primavera warm, garnished with extra herbs or cheese if desired.
Notes
- For best flavor and texture, use fresh, seasonal vegetables available in your area.
- To add more protein, consider topping the dish with grilled chicken or shrimp.
- For a vegan version, omit Parmesan cheese or substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative.
- You can customize the vegetables based on your preference, such as adding asparagus, carrots, or snap peas.
- Reserve pasta water helps to create a silky sauce that binds the vegetables and pasta together.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
