Pasta Primavera Recipe | Healthy and Flavorful Pasta Primavera

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Pasta Primavera is a vibrant and healthy dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch. With a combination of fresh vegetables, al dente pasta, and a light creamy sauce, this dish is a delicious and nutritious option for pasta lovers. The beauty of Pasta Primavera Recipe lies in its simplicity — it’s all about letting the freshness of the vegetables shine through.

This easy recipe will guide you through making a flavorful Pasta Primavera with just the right amount of creaminess and a burst of veggies, making it a delightful meal for the whole family.

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

  • 200 grams pasta (penne, spaghetti, or fusilli)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt to taste

For the Vegetables:

  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 red bell pepper (sliced)
  • 1 yellow bell pepper (sliced)
  • 1 zucchini (sliced)
  • 1 small carrot (julienned)
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce:

  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Preparation: How to Make Pasta Primavera Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
  • Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water. Set aside.

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Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

  • Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
  • Add the broccoli, bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
  • Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

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Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

  • In the same pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Cook for 2-3 minutes to allow the cream to thicken slightly.
  • Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

[Insert Image Placeholder: Making Creamy Sauce]

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Vegetables

  • Add the cooked pasta to the pan with the creamy sauce and toss to coat.
  • Stir in the sautéed vegetables and mix gently. Add a little reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.

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Step 5: Serve Pasta Primavera

  • Serve the Pasta Primavera hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

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Serving Suggestions

  • With Garlic Bread: Serve this fresh pasta with crispy garlic bread on the side for an added treat.
  • With a Side Salad: A simple mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs perfectly with Pasta Primavera.
  • With Extra Parmesan: Sprinkle extra Parmesan on top for that extra cheesy goodness.

Pro Tips for Perfect Pasta Primavera

  1. Vegetable Variations: You can add or substitute vegetables like asparagus, peas, or spinach, depending on what’s in season or what you have available.
  2. Pasta Cooking Tips: Make sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will absorb some of the sauce and the texture will be better.
  3. Cream Substitute: If you prefer a lighter version, you can replace the heavy cream with half-and-half or even coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative.
  4. Sauce Consistency: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little pasta water to thin it out and help the sauce adhere to the pasta better.

Variations You Can Try

  • Vegan Pasta Primavera: Use coconut milk or cashew cream as a substitute for heavy cream and leave out the Parmesan for a vegan version.
  • Pasta Primavera with Chicken: Add grilled or pan-seared chicken for extra protein and flavor.
  • Spicy Pasta Primavera: Add red pepper flakes or chili oil for a spicy kick to the dish.

Related Recipes From CookWithBisht.com

Pasta Primavera is a fantastic dish that’s bursting with color, flavor, and nutrition. Whether you’re a vegetarian or a pasta enthusiast, this dish will become a go-to favorite in your kitchen. The combination of fresh vegetables and creamy sauce creates a light yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

FAQs

Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen vegetables, but fresh vegetables will give the dish a better texture and flavor.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Pasta Primavera is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the vegetables and sauce in advance. Simply toss them with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any pasta of your choice, like fusilli, farfalle, or even gluten-free pasta for a different texture.

Nimu Bisht

Hello Everyone, I'm Nimu Bisht. A passionate home cook, food photographer, blogger and Owner of CookwithBisht. I'm excited to share my culinary journey with you, from traditional family recipes to modern twists and kitchen experiments. Join me for delicious recipes, cooking tips, and stories from my kitchen.

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