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Fresh Spring Vegetable Primavera Pasta

fresh spring vegetable primavera pasta - featured image

A quick, easy, and healthy pasta dish bursting with fresh spring vegetables, garlic, and herbs, perfect for a light and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz penne, farfalle, or your favorite short pasta
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 cup sugar snap peas or green peas, fresh or frozen
  • 1 cup green beans, trimmed and halved
  • 1 medium zucchini, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain, reserving 1 cup of pasta water, and set aside.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
  3. Add asparagus, green beans, and zucchini to the skillet. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until veggies are tender-crisp.
  4. Stir in sugar snap peas and cherry tomatoes. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until tomatoes soften slightly and peas are bright green.
  5. Season the veggies with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Add lemon zest and juice for freshness.
  6. Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the veggies. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce. Stir in fresh basil and parsley.
  7. Remove from heat and sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the pasta. Toss gently to combine and melt the cheese.
  8. Adjust seasoning to taste and serve immediately with extra herbs or cheese if desired.

Notes

Reserve pasta water to create a silky sauce without heaviness. Avoid overcooking vegetables to keep a tender-crisp texture. Use gluten-free pasta or vegan cheese alternatives to adapt the recipe. Adding a splash of white wine during sautéing adds depth. Leftovers reheat well with a splash of water or olive oil.

Nutrition

Keywords: spring vegetable pasta, primavera pasta, healthy pasta recipe, easy pasta, vegetarian pasta, quick dinner, fresh vegetables