Ingredients
– 12 ounces of pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or your choice)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 medium zucchini, sliced
– 1 medium yellow squash, sliced
– 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), sliced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
– Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions
Creating Pasta Primavera with Fresh Summer Vegetables is straightforward. Follow these easy steps for a perfect dish:
1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add Vegetables: Stir in the cherry tomatoes, zucchini, yellow squash, bell pepper, and broccoli. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
4. Combine Pasta and Vegetables: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a light sauce.
5. Add Flavor: Squeeze the juice of one lemon over the pasta and add the chopped fresh basil. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated.
6. Finishing Touches: If desired, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top and mix until melted and creamy.
7. Serve Immediately: Remove from heat and serve hot, garnished with additional basil and cheese if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to boost the protein content.