Fresh and Easy Pasta Primavera Recipe for a Quick Weeknight Meal
Pasta Primavera is a fresh and flavorful dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or as a light lunch. The roasted vegetables add sweetness and depth, while the pasta and Parmesan bring everything together for a satisfying meal. Whether you’re making it for yourself or sharing with others, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
This recipe appears in our cookbook “Cooking for One – Not an Army” along with other delicious recipes. It’s made for one, but you can easily double (or triple) this recipe for company or leftovers! If you didn’t get a copy yet, our book is on Amazon right here!
Ingredients for Pasta Primavera
This recipe calls for a mix of fresh vegetables and simple ingredients you likely already have. Feel free to substitute or add other vegetables based on what’s in season or what you you prefer.
- Carrots and Zucchini: These veggies add a nice crunch and flavor. Perhaps use asparagus instead of zucchini.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Adds a bit of sweetness and color.
- Herbs de Provence: This blend of dried herbs adds a subtle flavor to the vegetables.
- Penne Pasta: Substitute any pasta you prefer, like spaghetti or fusilli. Here are some tips on cooking perfect pasta to ensure yours comes out just right.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making this Pasta Primavera is simple and straightforward. Follow these steps for a delicious meal.
- Preheat oven to 425° F (220° C). Toss the vegetables with oil, herbs de Provence, salt, and pepper. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet and roast for about 20 minutes until caramelized. Learn the best way to roast vegetables for perfect results.
- While the vegetables roast, cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain pasta and set it aside.
- Once the vegetables are ready, transfer them to a large bowl. Add the cooked pasta, butter, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until well combined and the butter has melted.
- Serve the dish topped with chopped fresh basil for a burst of color and flavor. These serving bowls are magnificent for their vibrant colors and elaborate design.
Each step is designed to maximize flavor while keeping the process simple, making it a perfect recipe for busy weeknights.
Tips for Perfect Pasta Primavera
A few simple tips will take your Pasta Primavera from good to great. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
- Roast the Vegetables Well: Let the vegetables roast until they are caramelized and slightly crispy. This brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to the dish. This roasting pan works extremely well.
- Customize with Other Veggies: This recipe is flexible. Swap out zucchini for broccoli or asparagus, or add bell peppers for more color.
- Add Protein: If you want to make your dish more filling, add some grilled chicken or shrimp.
These tips ensure that the dish remains flavorful and balanced while giving you room to get creative.
Substitutions & Variations
If you’re looking for ways to adjust this recipe based on dietary preferences or available ingredients, here are some ideas:
- Vegetarian/Vegan Option: For a vegan version, replace butter with olive oil and skip the Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative.
- Gluten-Free: Simply use gluten-free pasta to adapt this recipe for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Cheese Lovers: Add a little more Parmesan or even a sprinkle of mozzarella for a cheesy twist.
These substitutions make it easy to adapt the recipe without compromising on flavor.
What to Serve with Pasta Primavera
Pasta Primavera is versatile and can be served as a complete meal or with a few complementary sides. Here are some serving suggestions:
- A simple green salad with balsamic vinaigrette
- Fresh garlic bread or a baguette
- Grilled chicken breast or shrimp for added protein
- A glass of light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc
Pairing Pasta Primavera with these sides can enhance the meal and make it more satisfying.
Leftovers & Storage
If you have leftovers, don’t worry—Pasta Primavera keeps well. Store any remaining pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may want to add a splash of water or a bit of butter to prevent the pasta from drying out.
This makes it easy to enjoy your leftovers without losing any of the dish’s original flavors.
Other Recipes to Try
If you enjoyed making this Pasta Primavera, you might want to try these other easy recipes from Sisters Know Best:
- Beef and Black Bean Chili Recipe – You can’t go wrong with Chili! Winter, Spring, Summer or Fall, we love this chili recipe.
- Kung Pao Chicken Recipe – Homemade Chinese food is just as good as takeout especially with this delicious Kung Pao!
-
Lemon Pudding Cake Recipe – This refreshing pudding cake is the perfect finish to any meal.
These recipes provide more options for healthy and delicious meals that are easy to make.
Pasta Primavera is an easy and customizable recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s a great way to use up fresh vegetables and create a balanced, tasty meal. Enjoy it on its own or with your favorite side dishes for a delicious meal.
