Are you looking for a delicious and easy-to-make spring-inspired pasta dish that’s perfect for any season? Look no further than pasta primavera! This classic Italian recipe combines cooked pasta with sautéed fresh vegetables, herbs, and sometimes even protein like chicken or shrimp. With its light and flavorful sauce, it’s a great way to use up whatever veggies are in season.
In this article, we’ll share 18 mouthwatering pasta primavera recipes that will make your taste buds dance. From classic combinations featuring asparagus and cherry tomatoes to creamy sauces with garlic and parmesan, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a vegetarian or just looking for a quick and easy dinner solution, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.
Classic Pasta Primavera with Fresh Vegetables
Pasta primavera is a quintessential springtime dish that celebrates the season’s freshest flavors. This recipe combines al dente pasta with sautéed vegetables and a hint of cream, making it an unforgettable comfort food.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bowtie or penne)
– 2 cups mixed spring vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, carrots, zucchini, snap peas, cherry tomatoes)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and vegetable mixture. Toss to combine.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta Primavera
In this recipe, we’ll combine the rich flavors of garlic and parmesan with the sweetness of primavera vegetables to create a creamy and satisfying pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bowtie or penne)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed primavera vegetables (e.g., cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, carrots, zucchini)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add primavera vegetables to the skillet and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until tender.
4. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let cook for 1-2 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the creamy garlic sauce.
6. Sprinkle parmesan cheese over the top and toss again to combine.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Herb Pasta Primavera with Asparagus
A bright and flavorful springtime pasta dish featuring tender asparagus, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a zesty lemon herb sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bow tie or penne)
– 1 lb. fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 cups mixed cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp. unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp. chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp. dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add asparagus; cook 3-4 minutes or until tender. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Add cherry tomatoes; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until they release their juices.
4. Stir in lemon juice, parsley, basil, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine cooked pasta, asparagus mixture, and Parmesan cheese (if using). Toss to combine.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Pasta Primavera with Chili Flakes
A twist on the classic primavera dish, this recipe adds a spicy kick from chili flakes and fresh vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (such as bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 tsp chili flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
4. Add mixed frozen vegetables and cook until thawed and heated through.
5. Stir in chopped parsley, chili flakes, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine cooked pasta with vegetable mixture. Toss to combine.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pasta Primavera with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Basil
This classic Italian dish combines the flavors of spring with the simplicity of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as bowtie or penne)
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in chopped basil leaves.
5. Drain cooked pasta and add to the skillet. Toss with tomato-basil mixture until well combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegan Pasta Primavera with Cashew Cream Sauce
A vibrant and flavorful vegan take on the classic Italian dish, this recipe combines the essence of spring vegetables with a rich and creamy cashew-based sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 2 cups mixed spring vegetables (such as bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, and snap peas)
– 1/4 cup cashews
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine cashews, garlic, and 1/4 cup water. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding more water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add mixed vegetables and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until tender.
4. Combine cooked pasta, vegetable mixture, and cashew cream sauce in the skillet. Toss to combine, seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pasta Primavera with Grilled Chicken
A classic spring-inspired pasta dish gets a protein-packed twist with the addition of grilled chicken. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bow tie or penne)
– 2 cups mixed spring vegetables (e.g., cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Add mixed spring vegetables and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add grilled chicken to the skillet and toss with pasta, vegetables, and any desired sauce (white wine and lemon juice).
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Pasta Primavera with Olives and Feta
This vibrant pasta dish is a flavorful celebration of the Mediterranean’s freshest ingredients, combining tender vegetables, briny olives, and tangy feta in a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a colorful addition to your next potluck.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bow-tie or penne)
– 2 cups mixed spring vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, etc.)
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Combine cooked pasta, tomato sauce, olives, and feta. Toss until well combined.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pasta Primavera with Roasted Red Peppers
A classic Italian dish gets a sweet and smoky twist with the addition of roasted red peppers. This colorful pasta is perfect for springtime gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bowtie, penne, or fusilli)
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed spring vegetables (e.g., cherry tomatoes, snap peas, and carrots)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast red bell peppers by placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
3. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the skin is blistered and charred. Remove from oven and let cool.
4. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
6. Add mixed spring vegetables and cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Peel roasted red peppers and chop into strips. Add them to the pasta mixture and toss again.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Pasta Primavera with Zucchini and Yellow Squash
A springtime twist on the classic pasta dish, this recipe combines tender zucchini and yellow squash with garlic, lemon, and herbs for a flavorful and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 medium yellow squash, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 tbsp. butter
– 2 tbsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp. dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add zucchini and yellow squash to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until tender.
4. Stir in butter, lemon juice, and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Toss cooked pasta with the vegetable mixture. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pasta Primavera with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes
This classic Italian dish is a refreshing summer treat, combining al dente pasta with vibrant cherry tomatoes and rich pesto.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., linguine or fettuccine)
– 1 cup fresh cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp. store-bought or homemade pesto
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, combine cherry tomatoes and garlic. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes release their juices and start to soften (about 5 minutes).
3. Stir in pesto and reserved pasta water. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with tomato-pesto sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pasta Primavera with Shrimp and Lemon Butter Sauce
This recipe combines the flavors of spring with succulent shrimp and a tangy lemon butter sauce, all tossed with al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bow tie or penne)
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed spring vegetables (such as cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots)
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
4. Add mixed vegetables to the skillet and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and reserved pasta water.
6. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing with shrimp and vegetable mixture. Pour in lemon butter sauce and toss until coated.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pasta Primavera with Broccoli and Carrots
A colorful and flavorful pasta dish that celebrates the freshness of spring vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., bow tie, penne)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup sliced carrots
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add broccoli and carrots to the pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Drain cooked pasta and add it to the pan with vegetables. Toss everything together.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pasta Primavera with Mushrooms and Thyme
Experience the taste of spring with this light and flavorful pasta dish, featuring sautéed mushrooms and thyme.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bow tie or penne)
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and simmer until reduced by half, about 2 minutes.
5. Stir in thyme and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked pasta and mushroom mixture. Toss to combine and top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pasta Primavera with Spinach and Artichokes
A classic springtime pasta dish gets a boost of nutrients from fresh spinach and artichoke hearts.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bow tie, penne)
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and sauté 1 minute.
3. Add chopped artichoke hearts and cook 2-3 minutes, or until tender.
4. Stir in fresh spinach leaves; cook until wilted, about 30 seconds.
5. Combine cooked pasta, artichoke-spinach mixture, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, with lemon wedges on the side (if desired).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pasta Primavera with Roasted Garlic and Parmesan
Elevate the classic pasta primavera by adding the deep, nutty flavor of roasted garlic and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese. This dish is perfect for springtime celebrations or any evening when you want to impress.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bowtie, penne)
– 2 cups mixed spring vegetables (e.g., asparagus, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, zucchini)
– 3 cloves garlic
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roast garlic cloves for 30-40 minutes or until soft and mashed.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add spring vegetables and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add roasted garlic, white wine (if using), butter, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Combine cooked pasta and vegetable mixture. Toss with parmesan cheese until well coated.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pasta Primavera with Sweet Corn and Bell Peppers
Celebrate the flavors of spring with this vibrant and delicious pasta dish, featuring sweet corn, bell peppers, and a medley of herbs.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bowtie or penne)
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, zucchini, cherry tomatoes)
– 1 cup fresh sweet corn kernels
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and sweet corn kernels. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Combine cooked pasta with the vegetable mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pasta Primavera with Fresh Herbs and Lemon Zest
This recipe is a light and refreshing take on the classic pasta dish, featuring springtime vegetables, fragrant herbs, and a burst of citrus flavor.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bow tie or penne)
– 2 cups mixed spring vegetables (e.g., asparagus, bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp. unsalted butter
– 2 tbsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add mixed vegetables to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in chopped herbs, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine cooked pasta and vegetable mixture. Toss to combine.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spring into flavor with these 18 delicious pasta primavera recipes! From classic combinations to creative twists, this collection has something for every season. Try the creamy garlic parmesan, lemon herb asparagus, or spicy chili flakes for a bold kick. Go vegan with cashew cream sauce, or add protein with grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted vegetables. With fresh herbs and citrus zest adding brightness to each dish, you’ll find the perfect pasta primavera recipe to suit your taste buds.
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