Spring Vegetable Penne Primavera

Name: Spring Vegetable Penne Primavera
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 300 g penne pasta; 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved); 1 medium zucchini (sliced); 1 cup asparagus (cut into 2 cm pieces); 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen); 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (grated); 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed); to taste salt and pepper

35 min 4 servings Easy

All Recipes

Fresh spring vegetables and a light garlic-lemon-Parmesan sauce make this Penne Primavera a delightful and vibrant dish.

Prep

15 min

Cook

20 min

Total

35 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Penne Primavera is a classic Italian dish that celebrates the bounty of spring vegetables. With asparagus, peas, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes, this recipe is a vibrant and colourful meal perfect for any occasion. Our version of Penne Primavera combines these vegetables with a light garlic-lemon-Parmesan sauce, creating a harmonious blend of flavours that is both refreshing and satisfying. It's a fantastic choice for those looking to enjoy a lighter pasta dish without compromising on taste. Perfect for family dinners or a casual weekend meal, this dish is quick to prepare and sure to impress with its fresh ingredients and zesty sauce.

Instructions

Cook the pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Pro tip: Reserve a cup of pasta water to adjust sauce consistency later if needed.

Sauté the garlic

In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Pro tip: Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

Cook the vegetables

Add cherry tomatoes, zucchini, asparagus, and peas to the pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.

Pro tip: Adjust cooking time depending on the size and freshness of your vegetables.

Combine with pasta

Add the cooked penne to the pan with the vegetables. Toss to combine.

Add Parmesan and lemon

Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and drizzle with lemon juice. Toss everything together until well mixed.

Pro tip: Add reserved pasta water if the mixture seems too dry.

Season and serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.

Pro tip: For added flavour, sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley.

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Tips & Tricks

Use fresh, seasonal vegetables for the best flavour.
Cook the pasta al dente for perfect texture.
Adjust the lemon juice to taste for a brighter flavour.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Penne Primavera?

Penne Primavera is a pasta dish typically made with penne pasta and a variety of fresh spring vegetables in a light sauce.

How long does it take to cook Penne Primavera?

It takes about 35 minutes in total to prepare and cook Penne Primavera.

Can I make Penne Primavera ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and vegetables ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Reheat before serving with freshly cooked pasta.

How many calories are in Penne Primavera?

A serving of Penne Primavera contains approximately 420 calories.

What vegetables can I use in Penne Primavera?

Common vegetables include asparagus, peas, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes, but you can use any spring vegetables you have on hand.

Is Penne Primavera suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this Penne Primavera recipe is vegetarian.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Penne Primavera with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a side of crusty bread for a complete meal. Pair it with a chilled glass of white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, to enhance the bright flavours. To make ahead, prepare the sauce and vegetables in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to two days. Simply reheat gently before tossing with freshly cooked pasta. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days.