A delightful and colorful pasta dish that showcases the flavors of fresh spring vegetables. Here's a classic recipe for Pasta Primavera:
Ingredients:- 8 ounces spaghetti or fettuccine pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup sliced bell peppers (a mix of colors)
- 1 cup sliced carrots
- 1 cup sliced zucchini
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1/4 cup vegetable or chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water.
2. In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sliced onion, and sauté until fragrant and the onion becomes translucent.
3. Add the broccoli florets, bell peppers, carrots, and zucchini to the skillet. Sauté the vegetables for about 4-5 minutes, or until they are slightly tender but still crisp. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
4. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and peas to the skillet. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the tomatoes start to soften and release their juices.
5. Pour the vegetable or chicken broth into the skillet, and bring it to a simmer. Allow the broth to reduce slightly, about 1-2 minutes.
6. If using, pour in the heavy cream or half-and-half to the skillet and stir gently to combine. This step is optional but adds creaminess to the sauce. You can omit it for a lighter version.
7. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss it with the vegetables. If the sauce seems dry, add some of the reserved pasta cooking water, a few tablespoons at a time, to create a silky sauce that coats the pasta.
8. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and vegetables, and toss again to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve the Pasta Primavera warm, garnished with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of freshness and color.
Feel free to customize this recipe by incorporating other seasonal vegetables of your choice or adding grilled chicken or shrimp for protein. The key is to showcase the vibrant flavors and colors of the fresh vegetables. Enjoy your Pasta Primavera!