Penne Pasta Primavera Recipe is a vibrant dish that combines the goodness of fresh vegetables with the satisfying texture of penne pasta. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a family dinner or simply craving a nutritious meal. The standout feature is its light lemon parmesan sauce, which brings out the flavors of the vegetables without overpowering them.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with fresh vegetables, this dish provides essential vitamins and minerals.
- Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or add protein like chicken or shrimp.
- Flavorful: The combination of lemon juice and parmesan creates a deliciously bright sauce that enhances every bite.
- Appealing Presentation: The colorful veggies make this dish visually stunning, perfect for impressing guests.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating your delicious Penne Pasta Primavera.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Serving plate
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for cooking pasta efficiently while allowing it enough space to move freely.
- Skillet: Ideal for sautéing vegetables evenly while developing their flavors.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients, ensuring quick and easy prep.
Ingredients
Penne Pasta Primavera is a delicious and healthy meal that’s full of fresh veggies, pasta, and a simple lemon parmesan sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups uncooked Penne Pasta
– Butter
– Olive oil
– 1 medium onion (diced)
– 1 large carrot (thinly sliced on the bias)
– 1 ½ cups broccoli florets
– 1 red bell pepper (cut into thin strips)
– 1 cup asparagus or zucchini (cut into bite-sized pieces)
– 3 cloves of garlic (minced)
– 3/4 cup chicken broth
– Juice from 1 lemon (about ¼ cup)
– Salt and pepper
– Parmesan Cheese (optional)
– Fresh minced parsley (optional)
How to Make Penne Pasta Primavera Recipe
Step 1: Boil the Pasta
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta just before al dente, about one minute less than package instructions. Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water, drain, and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat 2 tablespoons of butter and 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
Add the diced onion; cook until translucent (about 1–2 minutes).
Stir in the vegetables in this order: carrots, broccoli, red bell pepper, asparagus or zucchini, then minced garlic.
If needed, add another tablespoon of butter if it looks dry before adding asparagus.
Season with salt and pepper; transfer to a plate once cooked.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet:
Add another tablespoon of butter along with ¾ cup chicken broth, ¼ cup lemon juice, and reserved pasta water.
Bring it to a boil; simmer until slightly reduced (about 2–3 minutes).
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Stir in the cooked penne pasta into the sauce mixture.
Continue simmering until the sauce reduces by half (3–4 minutes).
Add back in the sautéed vegetables; season with additional salt and pepper as desired.
Step 5: Serve Your Dish
Top with fresh grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately after garnishing with fresh minced parsley. Lemon wedges can be served on the side for an extra burst of flavor.
This delightful Penne Pasta Primavera Recipe serves four people and can be enjoyed as a main course. Enjoy your healthy meal!
How to Serve Penne Pasta Primavera Recipe
Penne Pasta Primavera is a vibrant dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors and presentation. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your meal.
Pair with Fresh Salad
- A simple mixed green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette complements the freshness of the pasta.
Serve with Crusty Bread
- Warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious lemon parmesan sauce.
Garnish with Extra Parmesan
- Adding more freshly grated Parmesan on top makes for a richer flavor and creamier texture.
Include Lemon Wedges
- Lemon wedges on the side allow guests to add a fresh burst of citrus as desired.
Offer Grilled Chicken or Shrimp
- For added protein, serve grilled chicken or shrimp alongside or on top of the pasta.
How to Perfect Penne Pasta Primavera Recipe
To achieve the best result with your Penne Pasta Primavera, keep these tips in mind.
- Use fresh vegetables: Fresh seasonal vegetables will provide better flavor and texture than frozen ones.
- Don’t overcook pasta: Cooking it just before al dente ensures it maintains a bit of bite and absorbs the sauce well.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go! Enhance the flavors with salt, pepper, or even red pepper flakes for heat.
- Add herbs: Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can bring an extra layer of flavor to your dish.
Best Side Dishes for Penne Pasta Primavera Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Penne Pasta Primavera can create a balanced meal. Consider these options:
- Garlic Bread: Simple yet flavorful, perfect for enjoying alongside pasta.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce and creamy dressing provide a classic contrast.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add depth and nutrition to your meal.
- Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, and olives offers variety and richness.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil brighten your plate with color and taste.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a fun touch to any Italian feast.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Penne Pasta Primavera can be simple, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are a few mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking the penne pasta too long can lead to mushy results. Follow the package instructions and cook it just before al dente.
- Using Stale Ingredients: Fresh vegetables are key to this dish’s flavor. Avoid using old or wilted vegetables; always opt for fresh produce for the best taste.
- Skipping Seasoning: A common mistake is under-seasoning the vegetables. Don’t forget to add salt and pepper at each stage of cooking to enhance flavors.
- Not Reserving Pasta Water: Failing to save some pasta water can make it harder to achieve the perfect sauce consistency. Always reserve a bit before draining your pasta.
- Ignoring Cooking Order: Adding all vegetables at once can lead to uneven cooking. Follow the recommended order for adding veggies to ensure they’re perfectly cooked.
- Neglecting Garnishes: Skipping garnishes like Parmesan cheese or fresh parsley misses out on adding extra flavor and presentation. Always finish with a sprinkle of cheese or herbs.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing for optimal freshness.
Freezing Penne Pasta Primavera Recipe
- Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
- For best results, separate portions into smaller containers.
Reheating Penne Pasta Primavera Recipe
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until hot.
- Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth and stir until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions about making Penne Pasta Primavera.
Can I use other types of pasta instead of penne?
Yes! You can substitute penne with any pasta you prefer such as fusilli or farfalle.
Is Penne Pasta Primavera Recipe vegetarian?
Yes! This recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it features only vegetables and pasta.
How do I customize my Penne Pasta Primavera Recipe?
You can add protein like chicken or shrimp or use different veggies based on what you have on hand.
What is the best way to serve Penne Pasta Primavera?
It’s best served fresh with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley on top.
Final Thoughts
Penne Pasta Primavera is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy meal prep option. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its vibrant flavors!
Penne Pasta Primavera
Penne Pasta Primavera is a delightful and nutritious dish that captures the essence of spring with its vibrant colors and fresh flavors. This easy-to-make recipe combines tender penne pasta with an array of seasonal vegetables, all coated in a light lemon parmesan sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or as an impressive dish for gatherings, this pasta primavera is not just visually appealing but also packed with essential vitamins and minerals. Whether served as a main course or a side dish, it’s versatile enough to accommodate any meal plan. Enjoy the bright taste of this wholesome Italian-inspired recipe that everyone will love!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 2 cups uncooked Penne Pasta
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 1 large carrot (thinly sliced)
- 1 ½ cups broccoli florets
- 1 red bell pepper (cut into strips)
- 1 cup asparagus or zucchini (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- ¾ cup chicken broth
- Juice from 1 lemon
- Olive oil, butter, salt, and pepper
- Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Cook penne in salted water until al dente, reserving some pasta water before draining.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and butter, then sauté onion until translucent. Add carrots, broccoli, bell pepper, asparagus or zucchini, and garlic; season with salt and pepper.
- In the same skillet, combine chicken broth, lemon juice, and reserved pasta water; bring to a boil and simmer until slightly reduced.
- Stir in cooked penne and sautéed vegetables; mix well and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Top with Parmesan cheese and garnish with parsley before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 240g
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
