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Pasta Primavera

Pasta Primavera is a vibrant, fresh dish featuring starchy pasta tossed with crisp, colorful vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. The dish is cooked quickly to preserve the bright flavors and crunchy textures, finished with aromatic garlic and a sprinkle of Parmesan. The final result is a lively, visually appealing plate with tender pasta and crisp vegetables coated in a light, flavorful sauce.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 480
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces pasta (penne or rigatoni) whole wheat optional
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil extra virgin preferred
  • 1 red bell pepper seeded and chopped
  • 1 yellow bell pepper seeded and chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper seeded and chopped
  • 1 medium zucchini thinly sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes whole, blistered in the pan
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated

Equipment

  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Colander or strainer
  • Chopping board
  • Chef's knife

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente, following package instructions. Drain quickly in a colander, reserving a bit of pasta water.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped bell peppers and sauté, stirring frequently, until they start to soften and become slightly charred around the edges, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the thinly sliced zucchini and cook for another 2 minutes until tender but still crisp.
  3. Add the minced garlic to the vegetables and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant and just beginning to brown, being careful not to burn it.
  4. Stir in the cherry tomatoes and cook for another 1-2 minutes until they blister and release their juices, filling the pan with aroma and color.
  5. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the vegetables. Toss everything together, allowing the flavors to meld. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
  6. Remove from heat and sprinkle generously with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly and melt the cheese slightly.
  7. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy the vibrant, crisp-tender vegetables nestled with tender pasta in a light, aromatic sauce.