Pasta Primavera Delight is a vibrant and healthy dinner option, featuring crisp vegetables, al dente pasta, and a light, flavorful sauce. Packed with nutrition and bursting with color, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. It’s versatile, easy to prepare, and a true celebration of fresh ingredients.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- Use Fresh Vegetables: Opt for in-season produce for the best flavor and nutrients.
- Cook Pasta Perfectly: Aim for al dente to maintain texture. Reserve pasta water for the sauce.
- Prep in Advance: Chop vegetables and measure ingredients ahead for smooth cooking.
- Customize the Sauce: Adjust seasoning and add a splash of white wine or lemon juice for extra zing.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Sauté veggies in batches to maintain crispiness and flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Pasta Primavera Delight is more than a meal; it’s a wholesome culinary experience. Its quick preparation suits busy evenings, while its vibrant colors and flavors make it elegant enough for entertaining. With endless customizations, it caters to all preferences, whether you’re looking to keep it vegan, add protein, or incorporate different veggies. Plus, it’s a great way to use up fresh produce, reducing food waste and maximizing nutrition.
Pasta Primavera Delight
A vibrant pasta dish with crisp veggies, light sauce, and endless customizations for a healthy, delicious dinner.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, julienned
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 medium carrot, julienned
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for vegan)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Juice of ½ lemon
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente, according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant. Add bell pepper, zucchini, broccoli, and carrot. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender but crisp.
- Combine: Add cherry tomatoes, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to the skillet. Cook for 2 minutes until tomatoes soften.
- Toss Pasta: Add cooked pasta to the skillet. Mix well, adding reserved pasta water gradually until the sauce coats evenly.
- Finish: Stir in Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and fresh basil. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve: Plate warm, garnished with extra Parmesan and basil if desired.
Notes
This dish tastes best fresh but can be made ahead with some components prepped separately.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 300Total Fat 10gSaturated Fat 2gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 7gCholesterol 5mgSodium 468mgCarbohydrates 45gFiber 5gSugar 12gProtein 9g
The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.
Ingredients Notes
- Pasta: Use whole-grain, gluten-free, or traditional pasta to suit your dietary needs. Penne and fettuccine work well.
- Vegetables: Bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, broccoli, and carrots add a mix of textures and colors.
- Olive Oil: High-quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the dish’s richness.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic infuses the sauce with aromatic depth.
- Parmesan Cheese: For a dairy-free option, substitute with nutritional yeast.
- Herbs: Fresh basil and parsley brighten the flavors; dried Italian seasoning works in a pinch.
Variations and Substitutions
- Vegan Option: Skip the cheese or use a plant-based alternative like cashew cream or nutritional yeast.
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta without compromising flavor.
- Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or chili oil for heat.
- Sauce Swap: Replace the olive oil base with a light Alfredo or tomato sauce for a different flavor profile.
Storage Options
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to refresh the sauce.
- Freezer: Avoid freezing as the vegetables can become soggy. Cooked pasta can be frozen separately for up to a month.
- Meal Prep: Prepare all components separately and assemble just before serving for maximum freshness.
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