How to Make Pasta Primavera for a Fresh and Flavorful Dinner

If you're looking for a dinner that feels light yet satisfying, Pasta Primavera is your answer. This vibrant dish combines al dente bowtie pasta with a rainbow of roasted vegetables, tossed in olive oil and herbs, and finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan. It’s healthy comfort food at its finest and a great way to eat the rainbow without even trying.

Pasta Primavera became a classic in the 1970s, but its simplicity and versatility have helped it stand the test of time. Whether you’re trying to use up your farmers market haul or simply want to sneak more veggies into your dinner, this recipe is as nourishing as it is colorful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 3 carrots, peeled and cut into thin strips

• 2 medium or 1 large zucchini, thinly sliced

• 2 yellow squash, thinly sliced

• 1 onion, thinly sliced

• 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced

• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced

• ¼ cup olive oil

• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

• 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs or herbes de Provence

• 1 pound farfalle (bowtie pasta)

• 15 cherry tomatoes, halved

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Roast the Vegetables
Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). In a large bowl, toss the carrots, zucchini, squash, onion, and bell peppers with olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs. Spread them evenly across two heavy baking sheets. Roast for about 20 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the carrots are tender and the edges of the vegetables start to caramelize.

2. Cook the Pasta
While the vegetables roast, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the farfalle until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and reserve 1 cup of the pasta water.

3. Toss Everything Together
In a large serving bowl, combine the pasta and roasted vegetables. Add the cherry tomatoes and toss gently. Use the reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce and help everything blend together.

4. Finish and Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese and serve immediately.

Why Pasta Primavera Works

• Nutrient-Rich: With at least six different vegetables, this dish delivers a variety of vitamins and minerals especially vitamin C, potassium, and fiber.

• Plant-Forward: Adding more plant-based meals to your routine may help reduce inflammation, support gut health, and improve heart health.

• Customizable: Swap in seasonal vegetables like asparagus, snap peas, or mushrooms based on what’s fresh and available.

Expert Tip

If you want to make this dish even more balanced, consider adding a lean protein source like grilled chicken, shrimp, or white beans. You can also make it dairy-free by skipping the Parmesan or using a plant-based alternative.

Eating well doesn't mean giving up comfort especially when meals like Pasta Primavera bring both nourishment and joy to the table. It’s family-friendly, easily adaptable, and ready in under 45 minutes.

For more healthy recipes, subscribe to our newsletter.