why make this recipe
Pasta Primavera is a delightful dish that celebrates fresh vegetables and vibrant flavors. This recipe is not only colorful and appealing, but it also offers a healthy way to enjoy pasta. The combination of roasted vegetables, garlic, and herbs makes each bite packed with taste and texture. Plus, it’s simple to make, and you can customize it with your favorite ingredients or what you have on hand.
how to make Pasta Primavera
Ingredients:
- 1¼ pounds cherry or grape tomatoes (halved, for natural sweetness when roasted)
- 4 medium shallots (thinly sliced, adds mild onion flavor)
- 5 cloves garlic (peeled and smashed, for aromatic depth)
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil (plus more for serving, rich and fruity oil for roasting and finishing)
- 2 teaspoons salt (divided, for seasoning pasta water and vegetables)
- 1½ teaspoons sugar (helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes)
- 1 medium zucchini (cut into ¼-inch chunks, adds texture and freshness)
- 1½ cups fresh corn kernels (from 2 ears of corn, sweet and crunchy)
- 12 ounces fusilli pasta (or similar shape, holds sauce and vegetables well)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (for richness and a smooth finish)
- 1 teaspoon herbes de Provence (a classic French herb mix; dried thyme can substitute if needed)
- â…› teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, adds heat and depth)
- ½ cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese (adds sharp, savory flavor)
- ½ cup loosely packed basil leaves (roughly chopped, adds freshness and a pop of color)
- â…“ cup pine nuts (toasted, for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C). Line a baking sheet with heavy-duty aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- On the prepared baking sheet, combine the tomatoes, shallots, garlic, olive oil, salt, and sugar. Toss until evenly coated, then spread the vegetables into a single layer. Roast for 15–20 minutes, or until the tomatoes begin to brown.
- Add the zucchini and corn to the baking sheet, toss with the roasted vegetables, and spread back into an even layer. Continue roasting for 5 more minutes until tender-crisp.
- While the vegetables roast, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fusilli and cook until al dente, following package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the roasted vegetables and all their juices to the pan, along with the pasta, herbes de Provence, red pepper flakes, Pecorino Romano, and basil. Toss well to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve the pasta primavera in bowls, drizzling with extra olive oil and sprinkling with additional grated cheese.
how to serve Pasta Primavera
Serve Pasta Primavera hot, garnished with extra olive oil and additional grated cheese on top. You can add a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves for a lovely finish. A side salad or some crusty bread pairs well with this dish for a complete meal.
how to store Pasta Primavera
To store Pasta Primavera, place any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for about 3–4 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to prevent it from drying out.
tips to make Pasta Primavera
- Use seasonal vegetables for the best flavor and freshness. Bell peppers, asparagus, or carrots also work well.
- You can omit red pepper flakes or add more depending on your spice preference.
- If you like more sauce, add additional pasta water gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
- Consider using whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist.
variation
You can customize Pasta Primavera by adding protein such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed tofu. For a creamy version, stir in some cream or a splash of lemon juice for extra brightness.
FAQs
1. Can I make Pasta Primavera ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the roasted vegetables and cook the pasta in advance. Store them separately, and combine them just before serving.
2. Is Pasta Primavera vegetarian?
Yes, Pasta Primavera is a vegetarian dish, making it a great option for meatless meals.
3. Can I freeze Pasta Primavera?
Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the vegetables may change. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for a few days.
Pasta Primavera
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful dish celebrating fresh vegetables and vibrant flavors, perfect for a healthy pasta meal.
Ingredients
- 1¼ pounds cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 4 medium shallots, thinly sliced
- 5 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for serving
- 2 teaspoons salt, divided
- 1½ teaspoons sugar
- 1 medium zucchini, cut into ¼-inch chunks
- 1½ cups fresh corn kernels, from 2 ears of corn
- 12 ounces fusilli pasta
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon herbes de Provence
- â…› teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, optional
- ½ cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- ½ cup loosely packed basil leaves, roughly chopped
- â…“ cup pine nuts, toasted
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C). Line a baking sheet with heavy-duty aluminum foil.
- Combine the tomatoes, shallots, garlic, olive oil, salt, and sugar on the prepared baking sheet. Toss until evenly coated.
- Spread the vegetables into a single layer and roast for 15–20 minutes, or until the tomatoes begin to brown.
- Add the zucchini and corn, toss with the roasted vegetables, and spread back into an even layer. Roast for 5 more minutes until tender-crisp.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fusilli and cook until al dente, reserving 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the roasted vegetables and juices, along with the pasta, herbes de Provence, red pepper flakes, Pecorino Romano, and basil. Toss to combine.
- Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve in bowls with extra olive oil and cheese.
Notes
Use seasonal vegetables for the best flavor. Optional protein additions include grilled chicken or shrimp. For a creamy version, stir in some cream.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
