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Plate of Pasta Primavera with zucchini, peas, cherry tomatoes, and penne pasta

Pasta Primavera

Emily Wilson
A vibrant and fresh Pasta Primavera recipe featuring seasonal vegetables, penne pasta, and a light lemon cheese sauce. Choose from sautéed, roasted, or one-pot methods for a perfect spring meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American-Italian
Servings 4 bowls
Calories 411 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Skillet or roasting pan
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Mixing spoon

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 10 ounces penne pasta
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil plus more for finishing
  • 4 cloves garlic thinly sliced
  • 1 yellow squash thinly sliced
  • 1 zucchini thinly sliced
  • 1 bunch asparagus cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup red onion thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 0.5 cup frozen peas thawed
  • 0.75 cup grated pecorino cheese
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • red pepper flakes to taste
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves plus more for garnish
  • 0.25 cup fresh tarragon optional
  • freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne and cook until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water and drain.
  • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  • Add onions, zucchini, squash, and asparagus. Cook 5 to 7 minutes until just tender. Stir in cherry tomatoes and peas.
  • Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Pour in pasta water a little at a time and stir in lemon juice and pecorino cheese.
  • Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Add fresh basil and tarragon at the end. Toss gently and serve warm.

Notes

Use fresh, in-season vegetables for the best flavor. Stir in pasta water gradually to control sauce thickness. Always taste before serving.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Calories: 411
Total Fat: 27g
Carbohydrates: 33g
Protein: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 20mg
Sodium: 480mg
Fiber: 5g
Sugars: 6g
Keyword Pasta Primavera, spring pasta, vegetable pasta