Vegetarian Pasta Primavera
Vegetarian Pasta Primavera is a fresh, colorful classic packed with seasonal vegetables and tossed in a light garlic–olive oil sauce (or optional creamy version). It’s vibrant, comforting yet healthy, non-spicy, and perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a meatless main the whole family will love.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: ~30 minutes
Serves: 3–4
Ingredients
Pasta & Vegetables
300 g pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup broccoli florets
1 cup zucchini, sliced
1 cup bell peppers, sliced
½ cup carrots, thinly sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Sauce & Finish
2–3 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
Salt & black pepper, to taste
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
Optional creamy version:
¼ cup cooking cream or half-and-half
Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the pasta
Boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente.
Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
2️⃣ Saute the vegetables
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
Add onion and cook 2 minutes until soft.
Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini. Cook 5–7 minutes until tender-crisp.
Stir in cherry tomatoes and cook 1–2 minutes.
3️⃣ Combine
Add cooked pasta to the pan.
Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle oregano, salt, and pepper.
Add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
4️⃣ Finish
Stir in Parmesan (if using) and fresh herbs.
For creamy version, add cream and simmer 1–2 minutes.
5️⃣ Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve warm.
Tips & Variations
Extra protein: Add chickpeas, white beans, or tofu
Vegan: Skip cheese or use nutritional yeast
Lemon twist: Add lemon zest and a squeeze of juice at the end
Meal prep: Keeps well in the fridge for 2–3 days
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes—add them directly to the pan and cook until heated through.
Is Pasta Primavera healthy?
Yes—loaded with vegetables, fiber, and can be made light with olive oil.
Which pasta works best?
Short pasta like penne or fusilli holds the vegetables best.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 420 kcal
Protein: 14 g
Fat: 14 g
Carbohydrates: 60 g
Fiber: 7 g
Vitamin A & C: High