Pasta Primavera with Fresh Seasonal Vegetables
Bright, fresh, and full of flavor, this Pasta Primavera with Fresh Seasonal Vegetables is the perfect light and colorful meal! Loaded with crisp-tender veggies, tossed in a delicate garlic-infused sauce, and paired with perfectly cooked pasta, every bite is vibrant and satisfying.
Ingredients
- For the Pasta:
- 400 g (14 oz) penne, spaghetti, or fettuccine
- 1 tbsp salt (for pasta water)
- For the Vegetables:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small red bell pepper, sliced into strips
- 1 small yellow bell pepper, sliced into strips
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 medium carrot, julienned or thinly sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh asparagus, cut into 2-inch pieces
- ½ cup frozen or fresh peas
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- For the Sauce u0026 Garnish:
- ¼ cup vegetable broth or pasta water
- Juice of ½ lemon
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (or vegan Parmesan substitute)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: ¼ cup heavy cream for a creamier sauce
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente (about 1–2 minutes less than package instructions). Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add carrots, broccoli, and asparagus first (since they take longer to cook). Sauté for 3–4 minutes. Add bell peppers, zucchini, and peas, cooking for another 3–4 minutes. Stir in cherry tomatoes last, cooking just until softened. Season with salt and pepper.
- Step 3: Make the Sauce: Add lemon juice and a splash of vegetable broth (or pasta water) to deglaze the skillet. Stir in Parmesan cheese (and cream if using), mixing until slightly thickened.
- Step 4: Toss Everything Together: Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing with vegetables and sauce until well coated. If needed, add a bit more pasta water to loosen the sauce.
- Step 5: Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.