Pasta Primavera is a colorful dish packed with fresh, yummy veggies like bell peppers, carrots, and zucchini, all tossed with your favorite pasta. It’s light, bright, and oh-so-tasty!
I love how this dish feels like eating a garden on a plate! Plus, it’s quick to make, perfect for those busy nights when you want something healthy and delicious in a snap.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: This recipe uses penne, which holds the sauce well. If penne isn’t available, you can switch it for rotini, fusilli, or even spaghetti. I like using whole wheat pasta for extra fiber.
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor. If you’re out, a light oil like canola or avocado oil works too. Just remember that different oils bring their unique tastes!
Vegetables: Broccoli and bell peppers add crunch and color. Feel free to swap in zucchini, asparagus, or carrots based on what you like or have on hand. I love adding a handful of spinach for extra greens!
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce rich and creamy. If you want a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or coconut milk. I’ve enjoyed using cashew cream for a dairy-free option!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan brings a salty depth to the dish. If you’re vegan or lactose intolerant, look for nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese substitute. Personally, I often increase the cheese for added flavor!
How Do I Cook Vegetables Perfectly?
Sautéing vegetables correctly is key to getting the right texture and flavor. Start with the firmer veggies like broccoli and bell peppers, as they take longer to cook.
- Heat olive oil in your skillet over medium heat. Start with broccoli and bell peppers, cooking for 3-4 minutes.
- Then, add softer veggies like cherry tomatoes and frozen peas along with garlic. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes.
- Keep them moving—what you want are tender veggies with a bright color, not mush!
How to Make Pasta Primavera?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta and Sauce:
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup bell peppers (red and yellow), sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Pasta Primavera recipe takes about 25 minutes in total. You’ll need around 10 minutes to prepare the ingredients and another 15 minutes to cook everything up. It’s a quick and delicious dish perfect for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Typically, you’ll bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the pasta and cook it until it’s al dente (meaning it’s still firm to the bite). Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Veggies:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the broccoli florets and sliced bell peppers to the skillet. Sauté them for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften. This will give them a nice flavor and a bit of crunch!
3. Add More Veggies:
Next, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes, frozen peas, and minced garlic. Keep sautéing for another 2 to 3 minutes until all the vegetables are tender. The colors will be beautiful, and your kitchen will smell amazing!
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir everything together and let it cook for about 2 minutes. This will create a rich and creamy sauce!
5. Cheese It Up:
Add in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts and the sauce thickens a bit. Season it with salt and pepper to taste for that extra zing!
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Now, it’s time to add the drained penne pasta to the skillet. Toss the pasta with the creamy sauce and all the lovely veggies until everything is well coated and combined. This is where it all comes together!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a nice touch. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Pasta Primavera!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is a great choice, feel free to substitute with any pasta you have on hand, like fusilli, farfalle, or spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the pasta you choose.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian or Dairy-Free?
Yes, to make it vegetarian, simply ensure you’re using vegetable broth or stock in place of heavy cream. For a dairy-free version, you can swap heavy cream for coconut cream or cashew cream, and use a dairy-free cheese substitute if desired.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or vegetable broth to prevent drying out.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! This recipe is very flexible. Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or spinach. Just adjust the sauté time so that all the veggies are cooked to your liking before adding the cream.
