Spring Pasta
A vibrant and healthy dish featuring fresh vegetables and zesty flavors, perfect for spring gatherings or cozy dinners at home.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 10 oz penne pasta Ideal for holding onto sauce; can substitute with fusilli or rotini.
Vegetables
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 yellow squash, sliced
- 1 carrot, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Aromatics
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, thinly sliced Can substitute with shallots.
Liquids
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil Can substitute with vegetable or avocado oil.
- 1 Juice of 1 lemon Adds brightness to the dish.
Seasoning
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs
- to taste Salt Adjust according to preference; fresh herbs can enhance the dish further.
Optional Finishing Ingredients
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish Adds freshness when garnished on top.
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional) Can use feta cheese for a different taste.
Instructions
Preparation
- Boil a large pot of salted water and add the penne pasta, cooking according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cooking
- In a large skillet, heat 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the sliced red bell pepper, zucchini, yellow squash, and carrot to the skillet. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they begin to soften but still have a bit of crunch.
- Stir in the broccoli florets and halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is tender and the tomatoes start to soften.
- Add the cooked penne pasta into the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Drizzle the lemon juice and sprinkle the dried Italian herbs, mixing everything together well. Season with salt to taste.
- Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and, if desired, sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top. Serve hot.
Notes
Enhance flavor with a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. Customize with grilled chicken or shrimp.