Tag: Pasta Primavera

Pasta Primavera is a delightful and colorful pasta dish that features fresh vegetables and a light, flavorful sauce. It’s perfect for showcasing seasonal produce. Here’s how to prepare Pasta Primavera at home for six people

Ingredients:

For the Pasta and Vegetables:

• 1.5 pounds (24 oz) pasta (penne, fusilli, or your choice)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 2 medium zucchini, halved and sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Sauce:

• 1/2 cup vegetable or chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

1. Boil Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook Pasta: Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

2. Prepare the Vegetables:

1. Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add Peppers and Zucchini: Add the bell peppers and zucchini, and sauté for another 4-5 minutes, until they start to soften.
3. Add Remaining Vegetables: Add the cherry tomatoes, asparagus, broccoli, and peas. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.

3. Make the Sauce:

1. Add Broth and Cream: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for a few minutes to slightly thicken.
2. Add Cheese and Lemon: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.
3. Season: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.

4. Combine and Serve:

1. Toss Pasta and Vegetables: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce and vegetables. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated and heated through.
2. Add Fresh Herbs: Stir in the chopped basil and parsley just before serving.
3. Garnish: Serve the Pasta Primavera hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired.

Tips:

• Seasonal Vegetables: Use any fresh, seasonal vegetables you prefer or have on hand. This dish is versatile and adaptable.
• Cheese and Cream: For a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of cream or substitute with a little more broth.
• Leftovers: Pasta Primavera makes great leftovers and can be enjoyed cold as a pasta salad.

Enjoy your vibrant and flavorful Pasta Primavera