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Pasta Primavera: Easy Recipe for Fresh Veggies.

A vibrant and healthy Italian-American classic featuring al dente pasta tossed with a colorful medley of fresh, sautéed garden vegetables, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces pasta (spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
  • 1 medium yellow squash, sliced into half-moons
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 cup snap peas or green beans, trimmed
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, or thyme)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
  3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add the zucchini and yellow squash, cooking for 2-3 minutes.
  5. Add the bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, broccoli, and snap peas. Season with Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until tender-crisp.
  6. Add the cooked pasta and a splash of reserved pasta water to the skillet. Toss gently to coat.
  7. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and adjust seasonings.
  8. Serve hot garnished with fresh basil and extra Parmesan.

Notes

  • Do not overcook the vegetables; they should remain vibrant and slightly crisp.
  • Use seasonal vegetables for the best flavor.
  • If the pasta feels dry, add more reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time.
  • For a vegan version, omit the Parmesan cheese or use a nutritional yeast substitute.

Nutrition

Keywords: Pasta Primavera, Fresh Vegetable Pasta, Healthy Dinner, Easy Pasta Recipe, Vegetarian Pasta