Pasta Primavera – Fresh, Colorful, and Comforting

Pasta Primavera is the perfect celebration of fresh vegetables and tender pasta, all tossed in a light, flavorful sauce. Bursting with color and packed with seasonal produce, this dish is as beautiful as it is delicious. It’s a lighter take on classic comfort food, offering a balanced meal that’s hearty, wholesome, and satisfying. Ideal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, this recipe brings the garden to your table in under 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Light & Fresh: A veggie-forward pasta dish that’s still comforting.
Versatile: Use your favorite seasonal vegetables for endless variations.
Quick & Easy: On the table in just 30 minutes.
Balanced Meal: Protein, fiber, and flavor all in one bowl.

Ingredients

• 8 oz whole wheat pasta (spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small zucchini, sliced into half-moons
• 1 small yellow squash, sliced into half-moons
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ cup carrots, julienned
• 1 cup fresh spinach
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Juice of ½ lemon
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.

2. Sauté Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant. Add zucchini, squash, bell pepper, broccoli, carrots, and cherry tomatoes. Sauté for 5–7 minutes, until tender-crisp.

3. Combine Pasta & Veggies
Add cooked pasta to the skillet with vegetables. Toss together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce.

4. Season & Finish
Stir in spinach until wilted. Add lemon juice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss well. Sprinkle with Parmesan if desired.

5. Serve
Divide into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley or basil, and serve warm.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 280
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 8g
Protein: 11g
Fiber: 7g

Tips for Success

• Cut Veggies Evenly: Ensures they cook at the same rate.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Keep it al dente for the best texture.
• Add Protein: Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra heartiness.
• Make It Creamy: Stir in a splash of light cream or Greek yogurt for a silky sauce.

Why This Recipe Works

The medley of fresh vegetables creates vibrant flavor and natural sweetness, while the light lemon and garlic sauce keeps it bright and refreshing. Tossed with whole wheat pasta and a touch of Parmesan, it’s satisfying without being heavy—a dish you’ll feel good about enjoying any night of the week.

Pasta Primavera is a fresh, colorful, and wholesome dish that celebrates the beauty of seasonal vegetables. Quick to prepare and endlessly adaptable, it’s perfect for both busy weeknights and leisurely dinners. Each forkful brings comfort, nutrition, and flavor together in perfect harmony.