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
Scale
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
