Pasta Primavera
There’s something magical about the simplicity of a dish like Pasta Primavera—a celebration of fresh, colorful vegetables tossed with tender pasta in a light, flavorful sauce.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish that feels like springtime on a plate, this recipe delivers every time.
Packed with vibrant flavors, it’s as comforting as it is beautiful. Let’s dive in and make this deliciously easy dish together!
How to Make It
Note: This is an overview. See the recipe card below this post for ingredient quantities and full instructions.
Cook the Pasta
Boil a large pot of salted water (should taste like the ocean). Add your pasta and cook it to a perfect al dente—firm to the bite yet tender. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining.
Sauté the Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Then, toss in your chopped zucchini, bell peppers, broccoli, and cherry tomatoes. Stir occasionally until the vegetables are tender but still have a slight crunch, about 5–7 minutes.
Deglaze the Pan and Make the Sauce
Pour in the reserved pasta water to deglaze the pan, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the skillet. Add a splash of cream or a pat of butter for richness (optional). Stir until the sauce becomes glossy. Sprinkle in freshly grated Parmesan and stir to combine. Add fresh basil for a fragrant finish.
Toss the Pasta
Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet with the sauce and vegetables. Toss everything together using tongs until every strand of pasta is evenly coated and the vegetables are distributed throughout.
Garnish and Serve
Transfer the pasta to a large serving bowl or individual plates. Garnish with more Parmesan cheese, freshly cracked black pepper, and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil for extra flavor. Serve immediately.
Pro Tips
- Pick Seasonal Veggies: Use whatever fresh veggies are in season for the best flavor.
- Reserve Pasta Water: It’s a secret weapon for creating a silky, cohesive sauce.
- Go Heavy on the Herbs: Fresh basil, parsley, or even thyme add a burst of freshness.
- Use High-Quality Olive Oil: It makes a noticeable difference in the dish’s flavor.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or olive oil to refresh the sauce.
- Freezing: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze portions for up to a month. Be aware that the texture of the vegetables may change slightly upon thawing.
Pasta Primavera
Description
This Pasta Primavera combines tender pasta with vibrant vegetables in a simple, creamy sauce that’s perfect for any occasion.
Quick to prepare and full of flavor, it’s a dish that brings a taste of sunshine to your table.
Ingredients
Optional :
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the vegetables (cherry tomatoes, zucchini, bell pepper, broccoli) and cook for 5–7 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Pour in reserved pasta water and optional cream or butter. Stir well, then add Parmesan and basil. Cook for 2–3 minutes to combine.
- Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet and mix until well coated. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan and basil if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 350kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 10g16%
- Total Carbohydrate 50g17%
- Dietary Fiber 5g20%
- Sugars 4g
- Protein 12g24%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Substitute vegetables based on what you have on hand.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a slight kick of heat.
These values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands used. Always check your ingredient labels for precise nutrition details.
