Pasta Primavera

Pasta Primavera is a wholesome meal featuring zucchini, asparagus, yellow squash, and tender pasta topped with Parmesan cheese. It’s perfect for a healthy yet indulgent dinner.

Pasta Primavera, meaning “spring pasta” in Italian, features seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, peas, and carrots sautéed to perfection.

Combined with al dente pasta and topped with Parmesan and fresh herbs, it’s versatile and perfect for using any veggies you have on hand, celebrating garden or market bounty.

Why I love this recipe

As someone who adores vegetables, Pasta Primavera is my go-to comfort food.

When life gets busy, this recipe comes to the rescue. It’s a breeze to prepare, and the result is always satisfying.

Ingredients

• penne pasta
• extra virgin olive oil
• Italian seasoning
• lemon juice
• salt and pepper
• butter
• garlic
• yellow onion
• fresh basil
• Parmesan cheese
• yellow squash, zucchini, and red pepper
• grape tomatoes, green beans, and asparagus

Step by step

1. Preheat the oven to 450°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of olive oil, olive oil, Italian seasoning, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
3. Toss the squash, zucchini, pepper, tomatoes, green beans, and asparagus in the mixture to coat.
4. Arrange the veggies in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, then roast the vegetables for 15 minutes.
5. Meanwhile, boil the pasta according to package instructions.
6. In a large skillet, heat the remaining olive oil and sauté the onions for 5-6 minutes until translucent. Then, add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
7. Add the cooked pasta and basil, and cook for 3-5 minutes until heated through. Then, remove from heat and toss with the roasted vegetables.
8. Top with Parmesan cheese and serve immediately.

Variations

• add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein
• swap in whatever fresh, seasonal vegetables you have on hand
• try adding a different cheese like feta or goat cheese for a new flavor twist

Serving suggestions

I recommend to pair it with a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. Garlic bread is also a fantastic addition, providing a bit of crunch and extra flavor.

If you’re looking for a protein pairing, cilantro lime chicken and creamy garlic chicken.

Storage

Store leftovers an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
When you’re ready to reheat, place in a skillet with a little water or broth and warm it over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s heated through. This method helps to maintain the fresh flavors and textures of the dish.

Please comment and rate the recipe below! We love hearing from you!

Print