If you’re craving a dish that bursts with freshness and vibrant colors, this Pasta Primavera Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine tender al dente penne pasta tossed with crisp asparagus, sweet peas, juicy tomatoes, and artichoke hearts, all enlivened by minced garlic, zesty lemon juice, and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. This recipe not only brings a rainbow of vegetables to your plate but also delivers a comforting, wholesome meal that feels like a celebration of springtime in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Pasta Primavera Recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient shines individually yet perfectly harmonizes to create a dish that’s flavorful, fresh, and irresistibly satisfying. From the rich olive oil to the fresh parsley, every addition plays a key role in perfecting the taste, texture, and color of this wonderful pasta.
- 1 pound penne pasta: Choose your favorite pasta for that perfect bite and sturdy texture that holds the sauce well.
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided: Essential for sautéing and adding a silky finish to the pasta.
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced: Adds a sweet, mild bite and lovely color contrast.
- 1 cup asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces: Offers a fresh, slightly crunchy texture packed with nutrients.
- 1 cup frozen peas: These little gems bring bursts of sweetness and a pop of green to the dish.
- 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved: Their juicy acidity brightens up the overall flavor.
- 1 cup artichoke hearts: Adds depth and a subtle tang to each mouthful.
- 6 to 8 teaspoons minced garlic (about 6 to 8 cloves): Garlic infuses the dish with aromatic warmth and that comforting savoriness.
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice: Provides a refreshing citrus zing to balance flavors.
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the pasta giving a creamy, salty richness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings to enhance all the natural flavors.
- 3 tablespoons minced fresh parsley for garnish: Finishes the dish with a pop of color and fresh herbal notes.
How to Make Pasta Primavera Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking 1 pound of penne pasta according to the package directions until it’s perfectly al dente. This ensures the pasta has just the right amount of bite to hold up against the fresh vegetables and sauce. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside so it’s ready to be combined with the vibrant veggie mix.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
Heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced half red onion and 1 cup of trimmed asparagus pieces. Sauté them for 5 to 7 minutes until the asparagus still has a bit of crunch but is tender enough to enjoy. This step creates a foundational layer of wonderful texture and sweetness in your dish.
Step 3: Add Additional Vegetables
Next, stir in 1 cup of frozen peas, 1 cup of halved cherry or grape tomatoes, and 1 cup of artichoke hearts. Give everything a quick sauté for 1 to 2 minutes just until the vegetables are heated through. This combination infuses the dish with a medley of flavors and beautiful contrasting colors that make the pasta come alive.
Step 4: Add Garlic
Now, stir in 6 to 8 teaspoons of minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. The garlic should soften but not brown, allowing its beautiful flavor to permeate the dish gently. Once done, remove the skillet from the heat to preserve the brightness of all the fresh ingredients.
Step 5: Toss Everything Together
Time to bring it all together! Add your cooked pasta back into the skillet and toss with the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 3 tablespoons of lemon juice, and 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. The warmth from the pasta will help melt the cheese perfectly into the sauce, coating every piece with creamy, tangy goodness. Season with salt and pepper to your liking, and toss until everything is evenly combined.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Your Pasta Primavera Recipe is almost ready to enjoy! Serve the pasta hot and finish off with 3 tablespoons of freshly minced parsley sprinkled on top. This final touch adds a lovely fresh aroma and a burst of color that perfectly complements the vibrant vegetables.
How to Serve Pasta Primavera Recipe
Garnishes
Freshness is key when serving pasta primavera. A sprinkle of minced parsley is ideal, but feel free to add a little extra Parmesan cheese or a few red pepper flakes if you like a hint of heat. A light drizzle of olive oil just before serving can also elevate the dish’s silkiness and aroma.
Side Dishes
This Primavera pairs beautifully with simple side dishes like a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette, crusty garlic bread, or a light cucumber and herb yogurt dip. These sides enhance the freshness and balance the flavors without competing with the colorful pasta.
Creative Ways to Present
To impress your guests, try serving this Pasta Primavera Recipe in individual shallow bowls topped with edible flowers or a twist of lemon zest. For a family-style approach, place the pasta in a large colorful serving dish and scatter extra fresh herbs on top to showcase all the beautiful colors, making it as delightful to look at as it is to eat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The fresh vegetables and pasta will keep well for up to 3 days, making it a perfect option for next-day lunches or easy dinners during a busy week.
Freezing
Because of the fresh vegetables and lemon juice, freezing pasta primavera isn’t the best option as the texture can suffer upon thawing. It’s better enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for optimal flavor and texture.
Reheating
When reheating, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over medium heat. Adding a splash of olive oil or a little water can help loosen the sauce and keep the vegetables from drying out. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can cause uneven heating and affect the dish’s delicate flavors.
FAQs
Can I use different types of pasta in this Pasta Primavera Recipe?
Absolutely! While this recipe uses penne, you can swap in fusilli, farfalle, or even spaghetti if you prefer. Just make sure to cook the pasta al dente for the best texture.
Is this Pasta Primavera Recipe vegetarian or vegan?
The recipe is vegetarian-friendly, as it features no meat, but it includes Parmesan cheese, which is a dairy product. To make it vegan, omit the cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy tofu are all great choices that complement the fresh vegetables and brighten up the dish without overpowering it.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply substitute the penne pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta variety. The cooking time may vary slightly, so keep an eye on the texture to ensure it’s perfectly al dente.
What’s the best way to keep the vegetables crisp in this pasta?
Don’t overcook the vegetables; sauté them just until tender-crisp. Also, adding them gradually and avoiding prolonged cooking ensures they retain their bright color and satisfying crunch.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dish that’s light yet satisfying, bursting with freshness, and packed with wholesome ingredients, this Pasta Primavera Recipe is a true winner. It’s easy to prepare, colorful, and endlessly customizable, making it one of my absolute favorite go-to meals to share with friends and family. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience the joyful harmony of flavors that this vibrant primavera brings to your table.
Print
Pasta Primavera Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Pasta Primavera recipe is a vibrant, fresh, and flavorful Italian-inspired dish featuring al dente penne pasta combined with sautéed asparagus, peas, cherry tomatoes, artichoke hearts, and garlic. Tossed with olive oil, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese, it’s a perfect quick and colorful meal that serves 6 and can be prepared in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 pound penne pasta
Vegetables
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup artichoke hearts
Other Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
- 6 to 8 teaspoons minced garlic (about 6 to 8 cloves)
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 tablespoons minced fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Cook 1 pound of penne pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Prepare the vegetables: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced red onion and the trimmed asparagus pieces. Sauté for 5 to 7 minutes until the asparagus becomes tender-crisp, developing a nice texture and flavor.
- Add additional vegetables: Stir in the frozen peas, halved cherry or grape tomatoes, and artichoke hearts. Continue to sauté briefly for 1 to 2 minutes until all the vegetables are heated through.
- Add garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute to release its aroma without browning. Then remove the skillet from the heat.
- Toss everything together: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the vegetables. Toss with the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, lemon juice, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and coats everything evenly. Season with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste.
- Serve and garnish: Serve the pasta hot, garnished with freshly minced parsley for a bright, fresh finish that enhances the flavors.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and melting quality.
- Adjust the amount of garlic based on your preference for a milder or more robust garlic flavor.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute penne pasta with gluten-free pasta.
- You can use fresh peas when in season instead of frozen ones.
- This dish is best served immediately but can be reheated gently on the stovetop.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
