Pasta Primavera is a colorful dish packed with fresh veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and tomatoes. It’s light, tasty, and perfect for any day of the week!
Making this dish is a breeze! I love tossing my favorite pasta with olive oil and seasonal veggies. It’s a great way to enjoy a healthy meal while feeling like a chef! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: Penne is great for this dish, but you can swap it with fusilli, farfalle, or even gluten-free pasta if needed. Just pick your favorite!
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds a lovely flavor. If you’re out, avocado oil or grapeseed oil works too. Canola oil is a neutral option if you want to keep the veggie flavors more prominent.
Fresh Vegetables: This recipe shines with seasonal veggies. Feel free to replace asparagus with green beans or zucchini with yellow squash. Use veggies you have on hand!
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a salty, nutty taste. Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano are good replacements. For a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor.
Garlic: Garlic is a must for flavor. If you’re not a fan or are allergic, you can skip it or use garlic powder (about 1/4 teaspoon instead).
How Do You Cook the Perfect Pasta?
Cooking pasta right is essential for this dish to shine. Follow these steps for perfect results:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. This helps season the pasta as it cooks.
- Add the penne and cook according to package instructions for al dente, usually around 9-11 minutes.
- To check doneness, taste a piece a minute or two before the time is up. You want it tender but still firm to the bite.
- Before draining, reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water. It helps to adjust the sauce’s consistency later.
These simple steps will ensure your pasta has the ideal texture, adding to the overall deliciousness of the Pasta Primavera!
How to Make Pasta Primavera
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (red and yellow)
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup asparagus spears, trimmed and cut into thirds
- 1 large carrot, thinly sliced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a slight kick
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Pasta Primavera recipe takes about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping and chopping the veggies, and around 20 minutes cooking everything. Quick and tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s bubbling, add the penne pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (tender but firm). This usually takes about 9-11 minutes. Drain the pasta, but don’t forget to save about 1/2 cup of the pasta water!
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute, just until it becomes fragrant. You don’t want it to brown, so keep an eye on it!
3. Add the Vegetables:
Now it’s time to add the colorful veggies! Toss in the cherry tomatoes, sliced zucchini, asparagus, carrots, and mushrooms. Stir them around and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until they are tender but still crispy. This keeps everything fresh and vibrant!
4. Combine with Pasta:
Grab your cooked penne and toss it into the skillet with the veggies. If things look a bit dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to get everything nicely combined.
5. Add Flavor:
Mix in the fresh basil leaves and the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Stir everything gently so the cheese melts and coats the pasta and veggies beautifully.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Pasta Primavera is ready to be served! Dish it out while warm and top with extra Parmesan and a couple of basil leaves for added freshness. Enjoy your colorful, delicious meal!
This Pasta Primavera recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a blend of flavors and colors while savoring a simple yet satisfying dish. Enjoy your cooking! 🍝
Can I Use Different Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or whatever you have on hand. Broccoli, bell peppers, or spinach can make excellent substitutes. Just adjust the cooking times if needed for firmer or softer vegetables.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or olive oil to help loosen the pasta.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! To make this dish vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative. Nutritional yeast can also add a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Can I Add More Protein?
For an extra protein boost, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. You can sauté them in the skillet before adding the veggies for a complete meal!
