Zesty Lemon Herb Pasta Primavera Recipe

The air is filled with a zesty aroma that dances around your kitchen as you prepare to whip up a plate of Lemon Herb Pasta Primavera. Picture this: fresh vegetables glistening like jewels, vibrant colors splashed across your plate like an artist’s palette, and the tangy scent of lemon teasing your senses. It’s not just food; it’s an experience that tickles your taste buds and warms your heart.

This dish brings back memories of sun-drenched picnics in the park with friends, where laughter mingled with the rustling leaves and every bite was a burst of flavor. Whether you’re hosting a cozy family dinner or simply treating yourself to something special after a long day, this pasta primavera will never let you down. Are you ready for a flavor explosion? Let’s dive into this culinary adventure!

Sharing this dish at my last family gathering led to rave reviews and second helpings all around.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Pasta: I recommend using penne or fettuccine for their ability to hold sauce beautifully.
• Bell Peppers: Use a mix of red, yellow, and green peppers for color and sweetness.
• Zucchini: Choose firm zucchinis that are shiny and smooth for the best texture.
• Cherry Tomatoes: These little gems add bursts of juicy flavor; opt for vibrant ones!
• Fresh Basil: Always go for fresh basil; dried just won’t cut it here.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice elevates the dish’s brightness significantly.
• Olive Oil: Use extra-virgin olive oil for its rich flavor profile.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves add depth; avoid pre-minced varieties if possible.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings that amplify all the flavors in this dish.
• Parmesan Cheese (optional): Adds a savory finish; feel free to omit it for a vegan option.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta but reserve about half a cup of the cooking water.

Sauté the Veggies: In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in some olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 30 seconds—then toss in bell peppers and zucchini. Cook until they soften slightly.

Add Tomatoes & Seasoning: Stir in halved cherry tomatoes and season with salt and pepper. Continue cooking until the tomatoes begin to burst open—a delightful sight!

Mingle Everything Together: Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet along with reserved pasta water and lemon juice. Stir everything together until well combined—this is where magic happens!

Finish with Fresh Herbs & Serve!: Finally, remove from heat and fold in chopped basil. Serve immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Optional Variations: Feel free to swap out vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand—this dish loves customization!

Enjoy each bite as flavors mingle on your palate like old friends reunited!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling the pasta while sautéing your veggies in olive oil. This ensures everything is fresh and perfectly timed.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out any veggies based on what you have or prefer! Zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus work wonders here.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of olive oil.

I remember serving this vibrant Lemon Herb Pasta Primavera at a family dinner, and my cousin exclaimed, “This tastes like summer!” It warmed my heart knowing I created something so delightful.

FAQ

Can I use gluten-free pasta for Lemon Herb Pasta Primavera?

Yes! Gluten-free pasta works beautifully while maintaining texture and flavor.

What vegetables are best for this recipe?

Bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and asparagus add color and crunch.

How can I make Lemon Herb Pasta Primavera vegan?

Simply omit any cheese or butter and add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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Lemon Herb Pasta Primavera

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• Author: Sophie
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Lemon Herb Pasta Primavera is a fresh, vibrant dish that combines zesty lemon with colorful vegetables for a delightful and satisfying meal. Perfect for any occasion!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz penne or fettuccine pasta
• 1 cup bell peppers (mixed colors), sliced
• 1 cup zucchini, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (omit for vegan)

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Instructions

1. Boil water in a large pot; add salt. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of cooking water and drain.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Sauté garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Add bell peppers and zucchini; cook until slightly softened.
3. Stir in cherry tomatoes, season with salt and pepper, and cook until tomatoes begin to burst.
4. Combine the cooked pasta with the vegetable mixture, adding reserved pasta water and lemon juice. Mix well.
5. Remove from heat; fold in fresh basil and serve immediately with grated Parmesan if desired.

Notes

• Customize by swapping any vegetables based on seasonal availability.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat gently on the stove.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (250g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 5mg