Simple Veggie Pasta Primavera Recipe
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
A vibrant and healthy dish, this Simple Veggie Pasta Primavera is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful lunch. Bursting with fresh vegetables and tossed in a light sauce, it’s a celebration of flavors and colors on your plate.
This Simple Veggie Pasta Primavera is a go-to recipe for anyone looking to enjoy a nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With seasonal vegetables and a light olive oil dressing, this dish is as healthy as it is delicious.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- A colorful medley of fresh vegetables
- Light and healthy, perfect for any diet
- Quick and easy to prepare, ready in just 35 minutes
A Rainbow of Nutrition
This Simple Veggie Pasta Primavera is not just a feast for the eyes; it's also a powerhouse of nutrients. Packed with an array of colorful vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and broccoli, this dish provides essential vitamins and minerals that support overall health. The vibrant colors of the veggies indicate a variety of antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress in the body, making it a smart choice for a nourishing meal.
Each ingredient in this pasta dish contributes to a balanced diet. For instance, bell peppers are high in vitamin C, while zucchini offers a good source of fiber. Together, these vegetables create a satisfying meal that leaves you feeling energized and full without weighing you down.
Versatile and Customizable
One of the best aspects of this pasta primavera is its versatility. You can easily swap out vegetables based on your preferences or what’s in season. Asparagus, spinach, or even peas can make delightful additions, allowing you to tailor the recipe to your taste or dietary needs. This adaptability makes it an excellent choice for families, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their favorite veggies.
Additionally, if you're looking for a protein boost, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to the mix. This way, you can transform the dish to suit any occasion, from a light lunch to a hearty dinner.
Perfect for Meal Prep
If you're someone who loves to plan meals ahead, this Simple Veggie Pasta Primavera is an ideal option. It stores well in the refrigerator and can be reheated easily, making it a fantastic choice for busy weekdays. You can prepare a big batch on the weekend, and you’ll have delicious, healthy lunches ready to go throughout the week.
To keep the dish fresh, just store the pasta and vegetables separately and combine them when you’re ready to eat. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy and maintains the crispness of the veggies, ensuring that your meal tastes just as good on day three as it did on day one.
Ingredients
For the Pasta Primavera
- 8 oz pasta (your choice)
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 1 cup zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Feel free to mix and match your favorite vegetables!
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add bell peppers, zucchini, and broccoli.
Combine and Serve
Add the cooked pasta and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Toss everything together, season with salt and pepper, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.
Enjoy your delicious pasta primavera!
Tips for the Best Pasta Primavera
To enhance the flavor of your pasta primavera, consider using high-quality extra virgin olive oil. It not only adds richness but also brings out the natural flavors of the vegetables. Additionally, don’t be shy when it comes to seasoning; a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick to the dish if you enjoy a bit of heat.
Cooking your vegetables just until tender ensures they retain some crunch, adding texture to the overall dish. Remember to keep an eye on the color of the vegetables as well; vibrant colors indicate they are perfectly cooked and packed with nutrients.
Serving Suggestions
This pasta primavera can be a stand-alone dish, but pairing it with a light salad or some garlic bread can elevate your dining experience. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the flavors beautifully, providing a refreshing contrast to the warm pasta.
For a complete meal, consider serving it with a glass of white wine, such as a crisp Sauvignon Blanc. The acidity of the wine pairs well with the freshness of the vegetables, making for a delightful dining experience.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use whole wheat pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great option for added fiber and nutrients.
→ What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to add spinach, asparagus, or even peas based on your preference.
→ Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, simply omit any cheese and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth if you choose to add it.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Simple Veggie Pasta Primavera Recipe
A vibrant and healthy dish, this Simple Veggie Pasta Primavera is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful lunch. Bursting with fresh vegetables and tossed in a light sauce, it’s a celebration of flavors and colors on your plate.
Created by: Skylar Jennings
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Pasta Primavera
- 8 oz pasta (your choice)
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 1 cup zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add bell peppers, zucchini, and broccoli. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until vegetables are tender.
Add the cooked pasta and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Toss everything together, season with salt and pepper, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 8g