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Fresh Spring Vegetable Primavera with Herbs

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A quick, easy, and healthy pasta primavera featuring fresh spring vegetables and herbs, perfect for a light and flavorful weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne, linguine, or farfalle)
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium shallot, finely chopped (or small yellow onion)
  • 1 bunch asparagus (about 1 lb / 450 g), trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 cup (150 g) sugar snap peas or green peas
  • 2 medium baby zucchini, sliced into thin half-moons
  • 1 cup (150 g) cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon
  • ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Red pepper flakes, optional pinch

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz (340 g) pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes depending on the shape. Reserve 1 cup (240 ml) of pasta water before draining and set aside.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add minced garlic and finely chopped shallot. Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and translucent, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
  3. Add trimmed asparagus pieces, sugar snap peas, and sliced baby zucchini. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until tender-crisp. Toss in halved cherry tomatoes and cook an additional 2 minutes until they soften slightly but still hold shape.
  4. Add drained pasta to the skillet with vegetables. Pour in reserved pasta water, starting with ½ cup (120 ml), and toss to coat, creating a light sauce.
  5. Stir in chopped basil and parsley, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Season generously with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Toss everything to combine.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  7. Plate immediately, topping with extra Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil for shine.

Notes

Do not overcook the vegetables; keep them tender but crisp. Use reserved pasta water gradually to create a silky sauce. Add herbs off the heat to preserve flavor and color. Adjust cheese amount to keep balance and avoid overpowering fresh vegetable flavors. For vegan version, substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast or vegan cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: spring vegetable primavera, herb pasta, healthy pasta recipe, easy pasta primavera, vegetarian pasta, quick dinner, fresh herbs, spring vegetables

Find it online: https://forkifyfun.com/fresh-spring-vegetable-primavera-recipe-easy-healthy-herb-pasta/