Description
A colorful and healthy pasta dish filled withsautéed vegetables, garlic, and tomatoes, tossed in a light lemon-Parmesansauce for a delicious and refreshing meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 10 oz dry Barilla Penne Pasta
- Salt (for pasta water and seasoning)
- ¼ cup olive oil
- ½ medium red onion (sliced)
- 1 large carrot (peeled and julienned)
- 2 cups of broccoli florets (chopped into thin strips)
- 1 medium red bell pepper (cut into thin strips)
- 1 medium yellow squash (sliced into quarter portions)
- 1 medium zucchini (sliced into quarter portions)
- 3–4 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 heaping cup grape tomatoes (halved lengthwise)
- 2 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- ½ cup reserved pasta water
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese (divided)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions.
- Set aside ½ cup of the water used for cooking the pasta before draining it.
- Set the pasta aside.
Sauté the Vegetables:
- Heat ¼ cup of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sliced red onion and carrot, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Add the broccoli florets, red bell pepper, yellow squash, and zucchini to the skillet.
- Season with a pinch of salt and cook for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender but still slightly crisp.
Add Garlic and Tomatoes:
- Stir in the minced garlic and halved grape tomatoes, and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and the tomatoes start to soften slightly.
Add Seasoning and Pasta Water:
- Sprinkle the dried Italian seasoning over the vegetables, then pour in the reserved pasta water.
- Stir to combine, allowing the liquid to reduce slightly and the flavors to meld together.
Toss with Pasta:
- Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss everything together.
- Stir in the fresh lemon juice and half of the shredded Parmesan cheese, allowing the cheese to melt slightly and coat the pasta and vegetables.
Finish and Serve:
- Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.
- Serve the Pasta Primavera hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.
Notes
- Vegetables: Feel free to use whatever fresh vegetables you have on hand, such as asparagus, snap peas, or mushrooms.
- Make Ahead: Prep and sauté the vegetables in advance. Store in the refrigerator and toss with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or olive oil.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Sauté and boil
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired