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Pasta Primavera

Pasta Primavera is a vibrant, colorful dish that combines al dente pasta with sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes, all tossed together in a fragrant garlic and olive oil sauce. The final dish boasts a lively mix of textures—crisp vegetables, tender pasta, and fresh herbs—creating a bright, satisfying meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces pasta (penne or rigatoni) cooked until al dente
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil good quality extra virgin
  • 1 red bell pepper bell pepper sliced thin
  • 1 yellow bell pepper bell pepper sliced thin
  • 1 medium zucchini zucchini sliced thin
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 3 cloves garlic minced finely
  • Fresh basil chopped just before serving
  • Fresh parsley chopped just before serving

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Skillet or sauté pan
  • Chopping board
  • Chef’s knife
  • Colander

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until just al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving a splash of pasta water.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant and slightly golden.
  3. Add the sliced bell peppers and zucchini to the skillet. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender but still retain some crunch and have a bright aroma.
  4. Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes until they just start to burst, releasing their juices. The mixture should be lively and fragrant.
  5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Toss everything together gently, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to help combine the sauce and veggies smoothly.
  6. Remove from heat and sprinkle with freshly chopped basil and parsley. Toss lightly to distribute the herbs evenly, infusing the dish with bright, fresh aroma.
  7. Serve immediately, garnished with extra herbs if desired. Enjoy the vibrant textures and fresh flavors of this colorful pasta Primavera.

Notes

Chopping vegetables ahead of time helps streamline the cooking process. Reheat leftovers quickly in a hot skillet for best texture.