Pasta Primavera: Springtime Pasta with Seasonal Vegetables

Pasta Primavera is a vibrant celebration of spring’s bounty, combining fresh vegetables with pasta in a light, flavorful sauce. It’s perfect for a light lunch or a sophisticated side dish.

Ingredients

• 8 oz (225 g) penne or fettuccine
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 medium zucchini, sliced
• 1 medium yellow squash, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, julienned
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional)

Steps to make Pasta Primavera

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add broccoli, zucchini, yellow squash, and red bell pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
3. Add Tomatoes: Stir in cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes until they begin to soften.
4. Combine Pasta and Vegetables: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the vegetables. Toss to combine.
5. Add Sauce: Pour in the reserved pasta water, lemon juice, and grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together until the cheese melts and a light sauce coats the pasta.
6. Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve warm.

Cooking Tips

• Pasta Water: Reserving pasta water helps create a silky sauce that clings to the pasta.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add or substitute other seasonal vegetables like asparagus, snap peas, or mushrooms.
• Cheese Options: For a different flavor, try using Pecorino Romano or goat cheese instead of Parmesan.
• Make It Creamy: For a richer sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of crème fraîche along with the cheese.

Sources

• https://www.seriouseats.com/pasta-primavera-spring-vegetables-asparagus-fava-pea-recipe
• https://www.iheartnaptime.net/pasta-primavera/
• https://www.themediterraneandish.com/easy-pasta-primavera/
• https://www.hungry416.com/zucchini-noodles-with-pesto-a-fresh-and-healthy-summer-pasta-alternative/