Easy One-Pot Pasta Primavera: A Delightful Italian Dinner Recipe

Pasta primavera is a classic Italian pasta dish that combines fresh vegetables and pasta in a light sauce. It’s a perfect meal for those who love to experiment with vegetables while enjoying the comfort of pasta. This quick and easy one-pot recipe will surely become a favorite among your family or friends.

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450g) spaghetti or any short-cut pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 small zucchini, sliced
• 1 small bell pepper, diced
• 1 small carrot, julienned
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste

Instructions

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.

In the meantime, heat olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add minced garlic and stir for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Add the cherry tomatoes, zucchini, bell pepper, and carrot to the skillet. Stir occasionally as you cook for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are soft but not mushy.

Drain the pasta and add it directly into the skillet with the vegetables. Mix well to ensure that all ingredients are evenly distributed. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Cooking Time

This dish takes approximately 20 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal weekday meal or a simple weeknight dinner.

Number of Servings

This recipe yields about 4 servings. Adjust the portion size according to your needs or the number of people you are serving.

Tips for Success

1. Use fresh vegetables: For a more flavorful dish, use fresh vegetables instead of canned ones whenever possible.
2. Pasta choice: Opt for short-cut pasta like penne or fusilli to ensure that they hold the sauce and vegetables well.
3. Serving suggestion: Serve with a side salad and some crusty bread on the side. This will make it a more complete meal.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Pasta primavera is relatively low in calories but high in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants due to the abundance of vegetables. A typical serving contains approximately 400 calories, with about 35% coming from fat.

• Carbohydrates: ~60g
• Fat: ~12g
• Fiber: ~8g
• Protein: ~18g

Variations and Substitutions

If you want to add more flavor or change the dish, here are some ideas:

• Add protein: You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or even tofu for extra texture.
• Different pasta: Try using whole wheat pasta or ziti if you prefer a different type of pasta.
• Sauce variation: Use pesto sauce instead of the traditional white wine-based one to add more depth and flavor.

Conclusion

Pasta primavera is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly tasty. With a mix of vegetables, pasta, and fresh herbs, it’s a balanced dish that's perfect for any season. Try this recipe at home and enjoy a light yet satisfying meal!