Ingredients
– 12 ounces of pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 yellow squash, sliced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil, chopped, for garnish
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your Fresh & Easy Pasta Primavera:
1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.
2. Heat Olive Oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Allow it to warm up.
3. Sauté Onions and Garlic: Add the diced onions to the skillet. Sauté for about 3 minutes, then add the minced garlic. Continue cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Add Vegetables: Toss in the sliced bell pepper, zucchini, yellow squash, and broccoli. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
5. Incorporate Cherry Tomatoes: Add the halved cherry tomatoes along with the Italian seasoning. Stir well and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for another 2 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften.
6. Combine Pasta and Vegetables: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the vegetables. If the mixture seems dry, add a bit of reserved pasta water to create a light sauce.
7. Finish the Dish: Toss everything together until well combined. Allow it to heat through for a couple of minutes.
8. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, and garnish with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese, if using. Plate immediately and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: Boost the nutritional value by adding protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to make it more filling.