If your heart beats a little faster at the sight of colorful, vibrant dishes, Pasta Primavera will absolutely make your day. This classic recipe is a celebration of peak-season vegetables tossed with tender pasta, all dressed up in a gently zesty, cheesy sauce. Every bite is a festival of flavors and textures – crisp-tender veggies, pops of juicy tomato, the warmth of fresh basil, and a snowy sprinkle of pecorino. I love how this dish brings the garden right onto your plate. It’s fresh, lively, and endlessly satisfying – whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend gathering, Pasta Primavera has a little magic for everyone!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Pasta Primavera lies in its fresh simplicity. Each ingredient brings its own burst of color, texture, or flavor, and together they make an unforgettable meal. Here’s what you’ll need – and why you’ll love every bite.

Penne pasta: A classic choice, penne holds onto sauce and veggies with every forkful, making each bite hearty and satisfying.
Extra-virgin olive oil: Adds richness and silkiness to the dish, and is perfect for sautéing the vegetables to perfection.
Garlic cloves: Brings a warm, aromatic depth that ties all the vegetables together beautifully.
Yellow squash: Adds subtle sweetness and a lovely golden color to the medley.
Zucchini: Its mild flavor and tender bite make it a perfect match with the other spring veggies.
Asparagus: Brings its unique, slightly grassy flavor and that irresistible snap.
Cherry tomatoes: Juicy and sweet, these little bursts of flavor brighten up every forkful.
Red onion: Adds crunch, color, and a touch of sharpness to balance the dish.
Sea salt: Essential for bringing out all the fresh flavors of the veggies and pasta.
Frozen peas: Sweet, tender, and super convenient – just thaw and toss them right in.
Pecorino cheese: This salty, tangy cheese helps create a creamy emulsion with the pasta water.
Fresh lemon juice: The fresh citrus lifts all the vegetable flavors and adds refreshing brightness.
Red pepper flakes: A pinch here creates just the right amount of tingly heat.
Fresh basil leaves: Herbaceous and fragrant, basil makes every bite taste like pure springtime.
Fresh tarragon (optional): If you have it, a handful adds a subtle anise-like complexity that’s unforgettable.
Freshly ground black pepper: A few twists pull all of the flavors together – don’t hold back!

How to Make Pasta Primavera

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil, generously salted for flavor. Add your penne pasta and cook it according to package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente – just tender, with a slight toothsome bite. Once it’s ready, drain the pasta and toss it with a splash of olive oil to prevent sticking and keep it wonderfully slick and ready for the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat up the extra-virgin olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Toss in the sliced garlic, yellow squash, zucchini, asparagus, cherry tomatoes, red onion, sea salt, and a good amount of freshly ground black pepper. Sauté, stirring occasionally, for 3 to 4 minutes until the veggies are just starting to soften but still have plenty of vibrant color and texture.

Step 3: Toss Everything Together

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour in the peas, grated pecorino cheese, fresh lemon juice, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Using a big spoon or tongs, toss everything together so the cheese melts into the hot pasta and veggies, making a light, creamy sauce that coats everything beautifully. Finish by stirring in plenty of fresh basil, and tarragon if you’re feeling adventurous.

Step 4: Season and Serve

Taste and adjust for salt, pepper, or an extra squeeze of lemon as your taste buds demand. Pile Pasta Primavera high on plates or in a serving bowl, garnish generously with more basil, and get ready to dig in while everything is still warm and fragrant.

How to Serve Pasta Primavera

Garnishes

For Pasta Primavera, you can never have too many fresh herbs. A liberal shower of extra fresh basil on top really makes the flavors pop. For a bit of drama and a tangy kick, add a final flourish of extra grated pecorino cheese. If you love a hint of heat, sprinkle just a touch more red pepper flakes before serving.

Side Dishes

This pasta shines as a main course, but it pairs especially well with a bright green salad drizzled with a zippy vinaigrette. If you’d like to add bread, a simple crusty baguette (maybe rubbed with a tiny bit of garlic) is perfect for soaking up those last bits of cheesy, herby sauce. For a heartier meal, add a simple grilled chicken breast or roasted shrimp on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn Pasta Primavera into a dinner party centerpiece by serving it on a beautiful platter decked with extra vegetables and fresh herb sprigs. For a picnic or casual lunch, pack into individual bowls or jars layered prettily with extra basil leaves. It’s also stunning served room temperature as a pasta salad for outdoor gatherings – just toss in a little extra olive oil before serving.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Pasta Primavera stores wonderfully in the fridge for up to three days. Pop it into an airtight container as soon as it’s cool. The flavors actually meld and deepen, making the leftovers somehow even more irresistible the next day.

Freezing

While freezing Pasta Primavera isn’t ideal (the veggies can lose their lovely bite and become a bit mushy), it can be done in a pinch. Use a freezer-safe container and try to eat within one month. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge for best results, and be prepared for slightly softer veggies.

Reheating

To reheat, I prefer using a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or extra olive oil, stirring gently until the pasta is warmed through. The microwave works too, but use short bursts and stir between each one to prevent uneven heating – and don’t forget to top with more fresh basil or cheese just before serving!

FAQs

Can I use other vegetables in Pasta Primavera?

Definitely! Pasta Primavera is all about celebrating seasonal produce, so feel free to swap in bell peppers, green beans, mushrooms, or sugar snap peas. Just keep the cooking times in mind so all your veggies stay crisp-tender and vibrant.

Is Pasta Primavera vegetarian?

Yes! This recipe is naturally vegetarian. For a vegan version, simply skip the pecorino or use your favorite plant-based cheese alternative – it will still be brimming with flavor and color.

Can I make Pasta Primavera gluten-free?

Absolutely. Just swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta. Be sure to cook until al dente, as gluten-free pasta can become soft quickly if overcooked.

What’s the best pasta shape for Pasta Primavera?

Penne is a classic because it catches just the right amount of sauce and veggies in every bite. However, farfalle, fusilli, or rotini are all wonderful options as well, as their nooks and crannies are perfect for clinging to the cheesy, lemony sauce.

Can I serve Pasta Primavera cold as a pasta salad?

Yes, and it’s fantastic! Let the pasta and veggies cool, then toss with a little extra olive oil, lemon, and plenty of fresh herbs. Serve chilled or at room temperature for a picnic or summer lunch.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to taste (and fall in love with) Pasta Primavera! It’s the joyful, fresh supper I turn to again and again – simple, colorful, and impossibly flavorful. Give this recipe a try next time you crave something light and dazzling. Your table (and your taste buds) will thank you.