Easy Pasta Primavera Recipe

Easy Pasta Primavera

This vibrant dish is packed with fresh, seasonal vegetables and tossed in a light sauce for a satisfying and healthy meal.

Ingredients:

• For the Pasta:
  • 1 pound (450g) pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite kind)
  • Salt
• For the Vegetables:
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 1 yellow squash, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• For the Sauce:
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)

Cooking Guide:

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (slightly firm to the bite). Reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water before draining.

2. Sauté the Vegetables: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet or dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the zucchini, yellow squash, and tomatoes and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.

3. Combine and Finish: Add the cooked pasta, peas, Parmesan cheese, butter, and lemon juice to the pan with the vegetables. Toss everything together to combine and heat through for about 1 minute. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the mixture seems dry, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

4. Serve: Plate the pasta primavera and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Enjoy!

Tips:

• Veggie Variations: Feel free to add or swap in your favorite seasonal vegetables. Broccoli florets, asparagus, mushrooms, or even chopped spinach would all be delicious additions.
• Protein Boost: For a heartier meal, add cooked grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to the pasta along with the vegetables.
• Make it Spicy: If you like a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the vegetables while they are sautéing.
• Leftovers: Leftover pasta primavera can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen it up.