Pasta Primavera is the perfect comfortable dish for busy weeknights! This colorful meal combines fresh, seasonal vegetables with perfectly cooked pasta in a light and flavorful sauce, making it a go-to recipe when you’re looking for something healthy, quick, and satisfying!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients for Pasta Primavera
How to Make Pasta Primavera
Tips for Making Pasta Primavera
Make-Ahead Instructions
Storing Leftovers
Freezing
Reheating
Serving Suggestions
FAQs
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bright and Colorful. Pasta Primavera exudes vibrant colors from the fresh veggies, making it not just tasty but visually appealing. It’s a dish that’s sure to brighten up any dining table.
Fresh and Healthy. This pasta dish is packed with seasonal vegetables like zucchinis, bell peppers, and tomatoes, ensuring you’re getting your daily dose of vitamins while enjoying a hearty meal.
Quick and Easy to Make. With a total cook time of less than 30 minutes, you can have a delicious family meal on the table with minimal effort—perfect for your busy weeknights!
Customizable Recipe. You can easily swap out vegetables depending on your preference or what you have on hand, making it versatile and adaptable for any occasion!

Ingredients for Pasta Primavera

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Pasta: Use your choice of pasta, such as penne, fettuccine, or rotini. Cooking your pasta to al dente is crucial for the perfect bite.
Bell Peppers: Sliced into strips, bell peppers add sweetness and vibrant colors to the dish. You can use any color you like!
Cherry Tomatoes: Their juicy burst in every bite makes them a delicious addition. Halve them before adding to the mix.
Zucchini: Cut into semi-circle slices, zucchini cooks quickly and adds a tender texture to the pasta.
Olive Oil: A drizzle of good quality olive oil enhances the flavors and helps in sautéing the veggies.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives the dish an aromatic flavor; substitute with garlic powder if needed.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs such as basil, oregano, and thyme elevates the dish’s flavor profile.
Parmesan Cheese: For a cheesy finish, freshly grated Parmesan adds a rich flavor that complements the veggies well.

How to Make Pasta Primavera

Begin by cooking the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Introduce the sliced bell peppers and zucchini to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften, stirring occasionally.
Add the halved cherry tomatoes and Italian seasoning to the skillet. Sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes slightly blister.
Combine the cooked pasta with the sautéed vegetables in the skillet. Toss to combine evenly.
Shower the dish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and toss again until cheese is melty and coats the pasta.
Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.

Tips for Making Pasta Primavera

Use Seasonal Vegetables: Feel free to swap out the vegetables based on what’s fresh and in season. Broccoli, peas, and asparagus are great options!
Don’t Overcook Your Veggies: Aim for a slight crunch in your vegetables for the best texture in the dish.
Make It Ahead: Prep the vegetables a day before and store them in the fridge to save time on busy weeknights.

Make-Ahead Instructions

Cook pasta one day ahead and toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
Chop all vegetables and prepare them in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator.

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water to revive the pasta.

Freezing Pasta Primavera

To freeze, allow your pasta primavera to cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container or a ziplock bag.
When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat thoroughly before serving.

Reheating Pasta Primavera

Reheat on medium-low heat in a pan, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
Alternatively, heat in the microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through, adding a little water to prevent drying out.

Serving Suggestions

Garlic Bread – Perfectly crusty and delicious to accompany your pasta meal.
Arugula Salad – A refreshing salad adds even more greens to your meal.
Wine Pairing – A crisp white wine works wonderfully with the fresh flavors of the Primavera.

FAQs

Can I use different pasta types?

Absolutely! Any pasta shape you prefer or have on hand will work well in this recipe.

Can I add meat to this dish?

Definitely! Chicken, shrimp, or even sausage can make a great addition to Pasta Primavera.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Simply swap regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! Omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese substitute for a dairy-free option.

How long will Pasta Primavera keep in the fridge?

The leftovers can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container.