Pasta Primavera
Pasta Primavera is a delightful celebration of fresh, vibrant spring vegetables, offering a light and refreshing twist on a classic pasta dish. Perfect for any occasion, it combines seasonal produce with tender pasta in a zesty lemon-butter sauce.
The colorful medley of zucchini, yellow squash, carrots, and tomatoes creates a visually appealing plate while offering a burst of natural flavors. Paired with the richness of Parmesan and a hint of garlic, every bite is a satisfying experience.
Quick to prepare yet packed with nutrients, this dish is a versatile and health-conscious option. It’s ideal for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together, bringing brightness and simplicity to your table.
Pasta Primavera Ingredients
Pasta Primavera shines through its fresh, seasonal vegetables, each adding its unique texture and flavor to the dish. Zucchini and yellow squash bring a tender, mild sweetness, while the carrots add a crisp, earthy bite.
The bright burst of grape tomatoes enhances the dish with juicy freshness, complemented by the sweet pop of frozen peas. A touch of red onion contributes a subtle savory depth, while the garlic infuses the entire dish with aromatic warmth.
The vibrant lemon juice balances the richness of the butter, creating a light yet satisfying sauce. Finally, Parmesan crowns the dish with a salty, creamy finish, elevating the overall harmony of flavors.
Recipe Tips
- Prepping Vegetables: For even cooking, ensure that all vegetables are sliced into uniform pieces. This will help them cook at the same rate, so they retain their vibrant color and texture. Cutting the zucchini and yellow squash into half moons allows them to soften without becoming mushy, while the carrots should be sliced thinly to ensure they cook quickly.
- Pasta Cooking Tip: Always cook the pasta until it’s just al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the hot vegetables and sauce. Save a little pasta water before draining; it adds extra starch to the dish, helping the sauce adhere to the pasta and vegetables better.
- Sautéing Vegetables: Don’t overcrowd the pan while sautéing the vegetables. If the skillet is too crowded, the vegetables will steam instead of sautéing, which can affect their texture and flavor. Sauté in batches if needed, and keep the heat at medium to avoid burning the garlic or overcooking the vegetables.
What to Serve with Pasta Primavera
- Garlic Bread: Serve this fresh and vibrant Pasta Primavera alongside warm garlic bread for a perfect balance of flavors. The crispy, buttery bread complements the light, lemony pasta and adds a satisfying crunch that enhances each bite.
- Grilled Chicken: If you’re looking to add some protein, grilled chicken is a wonderful option. Its smoky flavor pairs nicely with the bright and fresh vegetables in the dish. Simply season the chicken with salt, pepper, and a bit of oregano for a delicious pairing that will keep the dish light yet filling.
- Simple Green Salad: A light, mixed green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette makes an excellent side for this dish. The freshness of greens, such as arugula or spinach, paired with a simple lemon dressing, enhances the springtime vibes and balances the richness of the butter and Parmesan in the pasta.
FAQ
1. Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes! While penne is great for this dish, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Fusilli, farfalle, or spaghetti would also work well. Just ensure to cook the pasta according to the package instructions.
2. Can I use other vegetables in place of zucchini and squash? Absolutely! Feel free to swap out the zucchini and yellow squash with other spring vegetables like asparagus, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Just be sure to adjust cooking times based on the vegetables you choose.
3. Can I make Pasta Primavera ahead of time? While Pasta Primavera is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the vegetables and cook the pasta ahead of time. When you’re ready to serve, simply toss everything together with the sauce and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little reserved pasta water if necessary.
4. How can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan? To make it vegetarian, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with a plant-based alternative. For a fully vegan version, swap the butter with olive oil or a vegan butter substitute.
PASTA PRIMAVERA
Ingredients
- 8 oz. penne pasta
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 zucchini
- 1 yellow squash
- 1 carrot
- 1/2 red onion
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup grape tomatoes
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 Tbsp butter
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the vegetables. Wash them thoroughly and cut each into uniform pieces. Slice the zucchini and yellow squash into half moons, cut the carrot into thin rounds, halve the grape tomatoes, and slice the red onion into strips.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to the package directions, ensuring it reaches an al dente texture. Before draining the pasta, reserve a small amount of the cooking water for later use.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced carrots and onions, sautéing them for 1-2 minutes. Then, add the zucchini and yellow squash and continue to cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Next, incorporate the minced garlic, halved grape tomatoes, and frozen peas into the skillet. Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, and dried oregano, allowing it to sauté for another 1-2 minutes before turning off the heat.
- To finish, add the butter and freshly squeezed lemon juice to the skillet, stirring until everything is well combined. Combine the cooked pasta with the sautéed vegetables in the skillet, or transfer the mixture to a large serving bowl. Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the top and stir in a bit of the reserved pasta water to help coat the ingredients. Serve with freshly chopped parsley, if desired, and enjoy!
