Oh, my foodie friends, do I have a treat for you today! Pasta Primavera is hands-down one of my favorite recipes. It’s colorful, vibrant, and bursting with flavors that just scream “spring!” I remember the first time I made it; it was during a gathering with friends when we were trying to eat healthier, and I wanted to impress them with something easy yet delicious. The combination of fresh veggies and creamy goodness had everyone raving—and I couldn’t believe how simple it was!
What I love most about Pasta Primavera is its versatility. You can mix and match any vegetables you have on hand, making it a perfect clean-out-the-fridge dish. Plus, who doesn’t love a pasta dish that’s pretty enough to serve at a dinner party but easy enough for a weeknight meal? Alright, let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
What’s in Pasta Primavera?
Let’s break down this ingredient list, shall we?
Penne Pasta: This tubular pasta is great for holding onto the creamy sauce and little bits of veggies. I usually go for whole wheat or gluten-free varieties depending on my mood or dietary needs.
Broccoli Florets: These little green trees not only add a pop of color but are also packed with vitamins K and C. Plus, they add that satisfying crunch!
Bell Peppers (Red and Yellow): Their sweetness perfectly balances the other flavors in the dish. I like to use a mix of colors for that gorgeous presentation!
Cherry Tomatoes: These juicy gems are the cherry on top (pun intended!). They add brightness and freshness to the dish, especially when they burst in your mouth.
Zucchini: This wonderful veggie adds a subtle flavor and lovely texture. It cooks quickly, becoming tender without losing its shape.
Snap Peas: They add a delightful crunch and a slightly sweet taste, making each bite feel like spring.
Garlic: Because, let’s face it, garlic makes everything better! It adds that aromatic touch that will make your kitchen smell heavenly.
Heavy Cream: Ah, the luxurious creamy element. It clings to the pasta and coats all those fresh veggies beautifully.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: Nothing says Italian like a sprinkle of cheese! It adds a savory depth to the creamy sauce.
Olive Oil: I like to use good quality extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor and health benefits.
Italian Seasoning: This blend of herbs (think oregano, basil, and thyme) adds that classic Italian flavor.
Salt and Pepper: Always season to taste! They are the unsung heroes of any meal.
Fresh Parsley: This is optional but looks pretty and adds a fresh touch.
Is Pasta Primavera Good for You?
You bet it is! This dish is not only delicious but also chock-full of nutrients. The combination of fresh vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas provides essential vitamins and minerals, keeping you energized and satisfied.
However, we should be mindful of the heavy cream and cheese if you’re watching your calorie intake. If you’re looking for a lighter version, consider substituting with Greek yogurt or a lower-fat cream. Just make sure to keep the flavor punch—because no one wants sad pasta. And the great thing is, this dish can easily be made vegan by swapping out the cream and cheese for plant-based alternatives!
Ingredients
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 cup bell peppers (red and yellow), sliced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup zucchini, sliced
– 1 cup snap peas
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
This recipe serves about 4 people, perfect for a cozy night in or a small gathering with friends!
How to Make Pasta Primavera?
Are you ready to create culinary magic? Let’s go!
1. Start by boiling a large pot of salted water, then add in the penne pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, usually around 10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. While the pasta is cooking, grab your favorite skillet and heat up the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until it’s fragrant—nothing beats that smell!
3. Now, it’s time to add some color! Toss in the broccoli florets, bell peppers, zucchini, and snap peas. Sauté those beauties for about 5-7 minutes, until they’re tender but still have a nice crunch.
4. Next, stir in the cherry tomatoes and let everything cook together for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften a bit.
5. Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning. Stir it all together and bring to a gentle simmer—this is where the magic happens!
6. Toss in the cooked penne pasta, mixing it throughly with the veggies and the creamy sauce. Now, add the grated Parmesan cheese, and don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Once everything is combined and heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve it up!
Just a Dash of Extra Love!
You can always switch things up based on what’s in season or your personal preferences. Love asparagus? Toss some in! Want to add a bit of protein? Grilled chicken or shrimp take this dish to the next level. And, if you’re feeling fancy, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick!
I just know you’ll love this Pasta Primavera as much as I do. It’s all about celebrating the flavors of fresh veggies and delicious pasta in a creamy hug. I can’t wait for you to give it a try! After you’ve made it, come back and let me know how it turned out. Your cooking journey starts here, and I’m cheering you on from the sidelines! Happy cooking!
