Looking for a quick, vibrant, and healthy pasta recipe that delivers flavor and freshness in every bite? This Colorful Veggie Pasta Primavera is a celebration of seasonal vegetables tossed with perfectly cooked pasta and a light, creamy sauce.
Whether you’re a busy professional, a home cook, or someone just exploring plant-forward meals, this dish offers simplicity, versatility, and irresistible taste.
Let’s dive into a restaurant-quality recipe you can make in under 30 minutes!
📋 Quick Overview
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings | Difficulty | Dietary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 15 mins | 20 mins | 35 mins | 4 | Easy | Vegetarian, Customizable |
🌈 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- ✅ Packed with nutrients from fresh seasonal vegetables
- ✅ Light yet satisfying — perfect for spring, summer, or anytime
- ✅ One-pan simplicity = less cleanup
- ✅ Easy to adapt for vegan, gluten-free, or high-protein diets
- ✅ Gorgeous presentation — ideal for entertaining or family dinner
🛒 Ingredients
Fresh, colorful vegetables are the heart of this dish. Choose what’s in season or in your fridge!
- 12 oz pasta (penne, farfalle, or gluten-free pasta)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)
- 1 small red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 yellow squash, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ cup heavy cream (or use coconut cream for dairy-free)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (or vegan alternative)
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a gentle kick)
- Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- ¼ cup reserved pasta water, if needed
👩🍳 Instructions <a name=”instructions”></a>
🔹 Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until just al dente. Drain and reserve ¼ cup of the pasta water.
🔹 Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add bell pepper, zucchini, squash, and broccoli. Sauté for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally until slightly charred but still crisp-tender.
🔹 Step 3: Add Garlic & Tomatoes
Stir in garlic and cherry tomatoes. Cook for 1–2 minutes, just until fragrant and tomatoes begin to soften.
🔹 Step 4: Create the Sauce
Lower the heat to medium. Stir in cream and parmesan cheese. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
🔹 Step 5: Combine & Serve
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat. Cook for 1 more minute, allowing flavors to blend. Garnish with torn basil leaves and extra parmesan if desired.
🍽 Optional Add-Ons & Variations <a name=”add-ons”></a>
Customize it for any dietary preference:
| Variation | What to Do |
|---|---|
| Vegan | Use coconut cream and vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast |
| Gluten-Free | Choose brown rice or chickpea pasta |
| High-Protein | Add chickpeas, tofu, or grilled tempeh |
| Kids’ Version | Add sweet corn, peas, and a dollop of ricotta |
| Low-Carb | Use spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles |
🧠 Expert Tips <a name=”tips”></a>
- Salt your pasta water like the sea – it’s your first layer of flavor.
- Cook veggies hot and fast – you want that light char, not a mush.
- Don’t overdo the cream – this dish is meant to be light and fresh.
- Add greens like spinach or kale at the end for extra nutrients.
🧊 Storage & Reheating <a name=”storage”></a>
- Refrigerate leftovers in a glass container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat gently in a pan with a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce.
- Avoid freezing, as the vegetables may turn soggy.
🧾 Nutrition Information (Per Serving) <a name=”nutrition”></a>
| Calories | Protein | Fat | Carbs | Fiber |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 345 | 12g | 10g | 48g | 5g |
- Rich in Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and potassium
- Naturally low in cholesterol
- Add legumes or tofu for a complete protein profile
❓ Frequently Asked Questions <a name=”faq”></a>
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes! Sauté them slightly longer to reduce water content and preserve texture.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Absolutely! Just reduce or omit red pepper flakes and add sweet corn or peas for natural sweetness.
What pasta shape is best for primavera?
Short pasta like penne, fusilli, or farfalle works great because it holds the sauce and veggies well.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Cook everything except the pasta and store. When ready to eat, boil pasta fresh and toss together for best texture.
