Description
A colorful, fresh pasta dish packed with seasonal vegetables and tossed in a light or creamy sauce. Perfect as a main course for lunch or dinner, Pasta Primavera can be served hot or cold and customized with chicken, Alfredo, or a simple olive oil sauce for a healthy, vibrant meal.
Ingredients
🛒 Ingredients (serves 4):
For the Pasta:
12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, thinly sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup zucchini, sliced into half-moons
1 cup yellow squash, sliced
1 cup bell peppers, thinly sliced (red, yellow, or green)
1 cup broccoli florets
1/2 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Creamy Sauce (optional):
1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon butter
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Add-Ons:
1 cup cooked chicken, sliced
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish
Extra Parmesan for serving
Instructions
📝 Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain the rest. Set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and onion, sauté 2–3 minutes until fragrant. Add bell peppers, zucchini, squash, broccoli, and peas. Cook 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender-crisp.
Step 3: Make the Sauce (Optional)
Reduce heat to low. Stir in butter and heavy cream, then add Parmesan and Italian seasoning. Mix until creamy and smooth. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Vegetables
Add cooked pasta to the skillet with vegetables (and chicken if using). Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time for desired consistency.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Transfer to serving plates. Sprinkle with fresh herbs and extra Parmesan. Serve hot, or chill for a cold pasta salad version.
Notes
- Vegetable Variations: Use any seasonal vegetables like asparagus, carrots, or snap peas.
- Make it Lighter: Skip the cream for a simple olive oil and garlic version.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Pasta Primavera keeps well in the fridge for 2–3 days; reheat gently or enjoy cold.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course / Pasta
- Method: Boiled / Sautéed
- Cuisine: Italian-American