Merken Rainbow Veggie Pasta Primavera is a vibrant, colorful pasta dish that celebrates the freshness of the season. Featuring bow-tie pasta tossed with an array of spring vegetables in a light garlic and olive oil sauce, it is perfect for a healthy and satisfying meal.
Merken This Italian-American favorite is as visually stunning as it is delicious. By using seasonal produce like asparagus and yellow squash, you create a dish that is both light and comforting, making it ideal for warm weather dining.
Ingredients
- 340 g (12 oz) bow-tie (farfalle) pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup yellow squash, sliced into half-moons
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup carrots, julienned
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 tsp sea salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Step 1
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bow-tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Step 2
- While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 3
- Add the carrots, broccoli, and asparagus. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Step 4
- Add the red onion, bell pepper, yellow squash, and a pinch of salt. Sauté another 3–4 minutes until all vegetables are just tender but still vibrant.
- Step 5
- Stir in the cherry tomatoes and peas. Cook for 2 minutes until just heated through.
- Step 6
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet along with the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed for a silky sauce.
- Step 7
- Season with additional salt and black pepper to taste.
- Step 8
- Remove from heat. Toss with Parmesan (if using), fresh basil, and parsley.
- Step 9
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra herbs and cheese as desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For extra protein, you can add grilled chicken or shrimp to the dish. Always remember to reserve the pasta water, as the starch helps create a silky, emulsified sauce when tossed with the olive oil and lemon juice.
Varianten und Anpassungen
To make a vegan version of this recipe, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based substitute. You can also experiment with other colorful vegetables like zucchini or snap peas depending on what is in season.
Serviervorschläge
This pasta dish pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. Serve it warm with a side of crusty bread to soak up the garlic and lemon sauce.
Merken Enjoy this Rainbow Veggie Pasta Primavera as a fresh, healthy dinner that the whole family will love. It's an easy way to eat the rainbow and celebrate fresh seasonal produce.
