Nothing quite beats a vibrant, fresh, and comforting plate of Pasta Primavera Recipe to brighten up your dinner table. This dish is a perfect celebration of seasonal vegetables tossed with perfectly cooked pasta and a luscious, creamy sauce that’s infused with herbs and a delicate hint of lemon. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just indulging yourself, this Pasta Primavera Recipe promises a satisfying experience packed with flavor, color, and the kind of wholesome goodness that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Pasta Primavera Recipe relies on simple but essential ingredients that each bring a unique element to the dish. From fresh vegetables offering vibrant color and natural sweetness, to the savory and creamy sauce that ties everything together, every ingredient plays a crucial role in creating this mouthwatering meal.
- Chicken broth 1 ¼ cups: Adds a rich, savory depth to the sauce base.
- Half and half 1 ¼ cups: Gives the sauce its creamy, silky texture without overpowering richness.
- Chicken bouillon cube ½: Enhances the savory flavor of the dish.
- Soy sauce 1 teaspoon: Contributes subtle umami to the sauce.
- Hot sauce 1 teaspoon: Provides a gentle kick of heat that awakens the palate.
- Dried parsley, basil, oregano, mustard powder ¾ teaspoons each: Infuse aromatic herbal notes that elevate the flavor profile.
- Red pepper flakes 1 pinch: Adds a dash of warmth and complexity.
- Olive oil 2 tablespoons: Perfect for sautéing the vegetables to tender-crisp perfection.
- Broccoli florets 2 cups: Offer a satisfying crunch and beautiful green color.
- Carrots ½ cup julienned: Introduce subtle sweetness and vibrant color.
- Red onion ½ cup sliced: Adds a slight sharpness and depth of flavor.
- Red bell pepper 1 cup sliced: Provides bright color and juicy sweetness.
- Zucchini ½, cut into chunks (1 ½ cups): Adds a light, fresh texture and mild flavor.
- Frozen peas ½ cup: Bring bursts of sweetness and pleasant texture.
- Cherry tomatoes 1 cup halved or quartered: Bursting with juicy acidity that balances the creamy sauce.
- Salt/pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning throughout the cooking.
- Butter 3 tablespoons: Enriches the sauce with a velvety finish.
- Garlic 3 cloves minced: Infuses aromatic warmth and depth.
- Flour 3 tablespoons: Helps thicken the sauce for that perfect creamy consistency.
- Parmesan cheese 1 cup freshly grated: Adds sharp, nutty richness that brings the whole dish together.
- Ziti ½ lb: The ideal pasta shape to hold onto the sauce and vegetables.
- Lemon juice 2 tablespoons: Brightens and lifts the entire dish with a fresh citrus punch.
How to Make Pasta Primavera Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the sauce mix
Start by combining the chicken broth, half and half, chicken bouillon cube, soy sauce, hot sauce, dried herbs (parsley, basil, oregano, mustard powder), and red pepper flakes in a large measuring cup with a spout. Set this mixture aside while you measure out the rest of your ingredients. This step ensures all the wonderful flavors blend evenly into the sauce later on.
Step 2: Boil pasta water
Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add half a tablespoon of salt to season the pasta water—this simple trick breathes flavor into the pasta from the inside out as it cooks.
Step 3: Sauté the first batch of vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the broccoli florets, sliced onions, julienned carrots, and red bell peppers. Sauté these for about 3 minutes until they start to soften but still hold a slight crunch—this contrast will lend your Primavera delightful texture.
Step 4: Add remaining vegetables
Next, stir in the zucchini chunks, peas, and cherry tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper, then cook for another 2-3 minutes. You want the tomatoes to soften slightly without losing their shape. Remove the vegetables from the pan and set aside, allowing them to rest while you prepare the sauce base.
Step 5: Make the roux
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat, then add minced garlic, cooking until fragrant. Gradually stir in flour, mixing continuously for about 2 minutes. This roux will thicken your sauce and give it a lovely creamy body.
Step 6: Incorporate the sauce mixture
Slowly add the sauce mixture to the roux in small splashes, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the sauce to a boil, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer to allow all the flavors to marry and the sauce to thicken to that perfect consistency.
Step 7: Cook pasta al dente
While the sauce simmers, cook your ziti pasta in the boiling water according to package directions until just al dente. Drain the pasta carefully to maintain its springy texture, ready to soak up the fresh sauce.
Step 8: Finish the sauce
Reduce the heat to low and gradually sprinkle in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese while stirring until fully combined. Then stir in the lemon juice, which adds a bright, tangy lift that balances the richness perfectly.
Step 9: Combine pasta and vegetables
Add the drained pasta to the sauce, stirring well to coat every piece. Then fold in the sautéed vegetables and toss gently to combine and warm everything through. This is where the dish comes alive with a colorful chorus of flavors and textures.
Step 10: Serve and enjoy
Remove the skillet from heat and serve your Pasta Primavera Recipe hot, garnished with freshly cracked black pepper and lemon slices to add a zesty finish that will have everyone smiling at the dinner table.
How to Serve Pasta Primavera Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes like extra Parmesan, lemon zest, or chopped fresh herbs such as basil or parsley really elevates this dish. They not only enhance visual appeal but also brighten and freshen each bite, making your Pasta Primavera Recipe feel vibrant and unforgettable.
Side Dishes
Keep the meal light and harmonious by pairing it with a crisp green salad or some crusty garlic bread. These sides complement the freshness of the Primavera without overpowering it. A glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon also works beautifully to round out the experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this dish family-style right from the skillet for a warm, communal feel or plate it elegantly by twirling the pasta onto a fork and layering the vegetables artfully on top. You can even stuff it into hollowed-out tomatoes or bell peppers for a fun, colorful presentation that wows guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pasta and vegetables will keep well for about 3 to 4 days, allowing you to easily reheat and savor the fresh flavors without much fuss.
Freezing
While this Pasta Primavera Recipe tastes best fresh, you can freeze leftovers if necessary. Place portions into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that the texture of some vegetables may change slightly after freezing, so thaw gently in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your leftover pasta gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the sauce from breaking, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen it up. Alternatively, microwaving in short intervals with stirring in between works well for a quick meal revival.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this Pasta Primavera Recipe?
Absolutely! While ziti works wonderfully here, feel free to use penne, fusilli, or farfalle. Just ensure the pasta shape can hold the sauce and vegetables nicely to maintain texture and flavor balance.
Is this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
You can easily make it vegetarian by substituting chicken broth and bouillon with vegetable broth and using vegetarian-friendly bouillon. The hearty vegetables and cheese keep it rich and satisfying.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried in the sauce?
Definitely! Fresh herbs like basil, parsley, and oregano add a bright, vibrant flavor. Just use about three times the amount of fresh herbs in place of dried for optimal taste.
What’s the best way to keep the vegetables crisp yet tender?
The key is sautéing the vegetables in batches and not overcooking. Cooking them quickly over medium-high heat until they just soften but still have a delightful crunch ensures they stay fresh and colorful.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the sauce can be made a few hours ahead and refrigerated. Reheat gently on the stove before combining with pasta and vegetables to keep the creamy texture intact.
Final Thoughts
I hope this Pasta Primavera Recipe inspires you to bring a burst of flavor and color into your kitchen. It’s a satisfying dish that’s straightforward to prepare and undeniably delicious. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy fresh veggies and pasta in every bite.
Print
Pasta Primavera Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Pasta Primavera is a vibrant and flavorful Italian-American dish featuring tender ziti pasta tossed with a medley of sautéed fresh vegetables in a creamy parmesan sauce, enhanced with herbs and a touch of lemon for brightness. Perfect for a wholesome, comforting meal that highlights colorful vegetables and rich flavors.
Ingredients
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 ¼ cups chicken broth
- 1 ¼ cups half and half
- ½ chicken bouillon cube
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce
- ¾ teaspoons dried parsley
- ¾ teaspoons dried basil
- ¾ teaspoons dried oregano
- ¾ teaspoons mustard powder
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes
Vegetables and Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups broccoli florets (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- ½ cup carrots (julienned)
- ½ cup red onion (sliced)
- 1 cup red bell pepper (sliced)
- ½ zucchini (cut into chunks, approx. 1 ½ cups)
- ½ cup frozen peas
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved or quartered)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Other Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- ½ lb. ziti pasta
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare the sauce mixture: In a large measuring cup with a spout, combine chicken broth, half and half, crumbled chicken bouillon cube, soy sauce, hot sauce, dried parsley, basil, oregano, mustard powder, and red pepper flakes. Set this mixture aside. Measure out all remaining ingredients before starting to cook.
- Boil the pasta water: Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, stir in ½ tablespoon of salt to season the water.
- Sauté the firmer vegetables: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add broccoli florets, sliced red onion, julienned carrots, and red bell peppers. Cook for about 3 minutes until they start to soften but remain crisp.
- Add remaining vegetables: Stir in zucchini chunks, frozen peas, and cherry tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp. Remove the mixture from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the roux: In the same skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook briefly until fragrant. Stir in 3 tablespoons of flour and stir continuously for about 2 minutes to form a smooth roux, which will thicken the sauce.
- Add sauce mixture: Gradually add the prepared sauce liquid in small splashes to the roux, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer to thicken the sauce nicely.
- Cook pasta: While the sauce simmers, partially cover the skillet. In the boiling salted water, cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Finish the sauce: Reduce the skillet heat to low. Gradually sprinkle in the freshly grated parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until fully combined and the sauce is creamy. Stir in 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice for a bright finish.
- Combine pasta and vegetables: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and stir to coat well with the sauce. Return the cooked vegetable mixture back into the skillet and toss gently to combine and warm through evenly.
- Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Serve the Pasta Primavera hot with freshly cracked black pepper and optional fresh lemon slices for garnish.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, replace chicken broth and bouillon cube with vegetable broth and bouillon.
- Adjust hot sauce and red pepper flakes according to spice preference.
- Ensure not to overcook vegetables to maintain their crunch and vibrant color.
- Pasta can be substituted with penne or rigatoni if ziti is unavailable.
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese provides the best flavor and melting texture over pre-grated options.
