Description
This Easy Pasta Primavera recipe features tender penne pasta tossed with a colorful medley of fresh vegetables sautéed to perfection in olive oil, flavored with garlic, Italian herbs, and fresh lemon juice. Topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, this wholesome dish offers a vibrant, healthy, and delicious meal ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 medium red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved
- 1 large carrot, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced
- 1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 medium yellow squash, sliced
- 2 cups broccoli florets, cut into small pieces
- 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
Pantry & Seasoning
- 2 tsp dried Italian herbs
- Salt, as needed
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Pasta & Cheese
- 10 oz penne pasta
- 1/2 cup pasta water (reserved from cooking pasta)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a 12-inch deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced red onion and carrots and sauté for about 2 minutes until they start to soften.
- Finish Cooking the Veggies: Add broccoli florets and sliced red bell pepper to the skillet and sauté for another 2 minutes. Then add yellow squash and zucchini, cooking for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until vegetables are almost tender. Add minced garlic, halved grape tomatoes, and dried Italian herbs, sauté for 2 more minutes until fragrant.
- Combine Pasta and Vegetables: Transfer the sautéed vegetables into the pasta pot or a large serving bowl. Add the cooked penne pasta, drizzle with fresh lemon juice, and season with salt to taste. Toss everything together, gradually adding the reserved pasta water to loosen the mixture to your preferred consistency.
- Add Cheese and Serve: Stir in 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley until well combined. Serve immediately, topped with remaining Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Enjoy your fresh and flavorful pasta primavera!
Notes
- Reserve pasta water before draining to help loosen the sauce and enhance flavor when mixing pasta with vegetables.
- Use fresh lemon juice to add brightness and balance to the sautéed vegetables and pasta.
- Adjust salt to taste since Parmesan cheese adds some saltiness.
- For a vegetarian option, ensure the Parmesan cheese used is vegetarian-friendly (without animal rennet).
- Serve immediately to enjoy the best texture and flavor.
