Name: Delicious Pasta Primavera Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 10 ounces dried penne pasta; Salt, as needed; 1/2 cup reserved pasta water; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil; 1/2 medium red onion, sliced; 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced into thin strips; 2 cups broccoli, sliced into small pieces; 1 medium red bell pepper, sliced into thin strips; 1 medium yellow squash, quartered and sliced; 1 medium zucchini, quartered and sliced; 3-4 garlic cloves, minced; 1 heaping cup grape tomatoes, halved lengthwise; 2 teaspoons Italian herbs, dried; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving a meal that’s bursting with vibrant color and fresh flavors, this Delicious Pasta Primavera Recipe is an absolute winner. It’s an effortless celebration of crisp veggies, tender pasta, and tangy Parmesan that comes together in one delightful dish. Whether you want a quick weeknight supper or a crowd-pleaser for entertaining, this recipe blends simplicity with brightness for a true veggie lover’s dream.

Delicious Pasta Primavera Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward but each one plays a key role in building the layers of flavor and texture that make the Delicious Pasta Primavera Recipe so irresistible. From the fresh garlic that adds a zesty punch to the tender, colorful medley of vegetables that bring vibrancy to your plate, this list keeps it simple and beautiful.

10 ounces dried penne pasta: The perfect shape to hold onto all the delicious sauce and veggies.
Salt, as needed: Essential for seasoning both the pasta water and the final dish to enhance natural flavors.
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness and helps sauté the vegetables to tender perfection.
1/2 medium red onion, sliced: Contributes a mild sweetness and lovely crunch.
1 large carrot, peeled and sliced into thin strips: Offers a subtle earthiness and a pop of orange color.
2 cups broccoli, sliced into small pieces: Delivers crunch and a nutritious green boost.
1 medium red bell pepper, sliced into thin strips: Brings sweetness and a beautiful red hue.
1 medium yellow squash, quartered and sliced: Adds a tender bite and sunny color.
1 medium zucchini, quartered and sliced: Balances the veggies with subtle flavor and texture.
3-4 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the dish with a fragrant, garlicky warmth.
1 heaping cup grape tomatoes, halved lengthwise: Pops of juicy sweetness that lighten every bite.
2 teaspoons Italian herbs, dried: A classic herbal blend to bring everything together.
1/2 cup reserved pasta water: Helps create a silky sauce while tying all the elements.
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Adds a bright, zesty finish that lifts the whole dish.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided: For that rich, savory, and slightly nutty flavor that makes every forkful special.
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Freshness and an herbaceous note to crown the dish.

How to Make Delicious Pasta Primavera Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook the penne pasta until it’s just al dente—tender yet with a slight bite to stay perfect when tossed with the veggies. Don’t forget to scoop out half a cup of that precious pasta water before draining because that starchy water will help you create a luscious sauce later on.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat your extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the sliced red onion, carrot strips, broccoli pieces, and red bell pepper. Let them gently cook until they start to soften and release their wonderful aromas. This step builds the foundation of flavor with a perfect combination of tender and crisp textures.

Step 3: Finish Cooking the Veggies

Next up, add in the yellow squash, zucchini, minced garlic, and halved grape tomatoes along with those fragrant Italian herbs. Sauté everything together just until the garlic becomes fragrant and the tomatoes start to release their juices. This part of the process adds that fresh, summery brightness that makes the Delicious Pasta Primavera Recipe so irresistible.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Vegetables

Transfer the sautéed vegetables directly into the pot you used for the pasta, then add the drained penne, fresh lemon juice, salt to taste, and the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly, allowing the flavors to marry as the pasta soaks up the delicious juices.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Serve

The finishing touch is stirring in half of the grated Parmesan cheese along with the chopped fresh parsley. Serve the pasta in bowls generously topped with the remaining Parmesan to bring that savory, nutty richness that perfectly balances the fresh vegetables. This step truly elevates your Delicious Pasta Primavera Recipe from simple to spectacular.

How to Serve Delicious Pasta Primavera Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of extra Parmesan and a handful of fresh parsley always make a dish look inviting and taste even better. You might also add a drizzle of olive oil or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. These small details add a delightful finishing flair.

Side Dishes

This pasta pairs wonderfully with warm, crusty bread or a light green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad complements the pasta’s richness while the bread helps scoop up every last bit of that savory goodness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, serve your pasta primavera in colorful bowls or even nestle it inside hollowed-out roasted bell peppers. You can also scatter edible flowers and fresh herbs on top to impress friends if you’re bringing this dish to a special occasion. It’s vibrant, fun, and always a crowd-pleaser.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your delicious meal, simply transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. The pasta holds up well for 2 to 3 days, making it a fantastic option for quick lunches or dinners following your initial feast.

Freezing

While freezing pasta with fresh vegetables isn’t always ideal due to texture changes, you can still freeze the cooked pasta separately. When ready to enjoy, thaw it and reheat gently, tossing in freshly sautéed veggies and sauce for that just-made taste.

Reheating

To bring your leftovers back to life, warm them gently in a skillet on low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce. Microwaving works too, but stirring frequently ensures everything heats evenly without drying out.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While penne is ideal for holding sauce and vegetables, you can also use fusilli, farfalle, or even spaghetti if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to keep the perfect al dente texture.

What if I don’t have Italian herbs on hand?

No worries—fresh basil, oregano, thyme, or rosemary can be excellent substitutes. Mix and match according to your preference, or simply use whichever dried herbs you have in the pantry for a slightly different but delicious twist.

Is this recipe vegetarian and vegan-friendly?

It’s naturally vegetarian as written. For a vegan version, simply substitute the Parmesan cheese with a plant-based alternative or nutritional yeast to keep that savory depth without dairy.

Can I add protein to the Delicious Pasta Primavera Recipe?

Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy tofu can be wonderful additions that transform this into a heartier meal while still complementing the fresh vegetable flavors.

How do I keep the vegetables crisp but tender?

The key is sautéing the vegetables just until they’re tender yet still have a bit of bite. Overcooking can make them mushy, so add the quickest-cooking veggies last and keep an eye on timing for perfect texture.

Final Thoughts

This Delicious Pasta Primavera Recipe brings the best of fresh seasonal vegetables together with comforting pasta in a way that feels lively and satisfying. It’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again, sharing that perfect balance of flavors with family and friends. Give it a go and watch it quickly become one of your favorite go-to meals!

Delicious Pasta Primavera Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 27 reviews

Author: anna
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Delicious Pasta Primavera recipe is a vibrant, vegetable-packed pasta dish perfect for a light and satisfying meal. Featuring a medley of fresh veggies sautéed with garlic and Italian herbs, tossed with al dente penne pasta, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese, this dish is both flavorful and easy to prepare—ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a fresh springtime treat.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add salt to taste. Add the dried penne pasta and cook until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta to help create a silky sauce later.
Sauté the Vegetables: Heat 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced red onion, carrot strips, broccoli pieces, and red bell pepper strips. Sauté these vegetables for about 5-7 minutes until they start to soften but still retain some crunch.
Finish Cooking the Veggies: Add the quartered and sliced yellow squash and zucchini, minced garlic, halved grape tomatoes, and 2 teaspoons of dried Italian herbs to the skillet. Continue sautéing for another 3-4 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the vegetables are tender yet vibrant.
Combine Pasta and Vegetables: Transfer the cooked vegetables to the pot used for pasta. Add the drained penne pasta back into the pot. Pour in the fresh lemon juice, reserved pasta water, and additional salt as needed. Toss everything together gently to combine and allow the pasta water to help coat the ingredients.
Add Cheese and Serve: Stir in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese and 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley until well mixed. Serve immediately, topping each plate with extra Parmesan cheese for added flavor and garnish.

Notes

Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency and help ingredients meld together.
Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.
You can substitute penne with other pasta shapes like fusilli or farfalle if preferred.
For a vegan version, omit Parmesan or replace with nutritional yeast.
Adjust vegetable quantities to your preference or seasonal availability.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Boiling, Sautéing
Cuisine: Italian