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Pasta Primavera (Delicious Easy Recipe!)

Pasta primavera is a delightful and vibrant dish that celebrates the fresh flavours of spring vegetables, all tossed together in a silky sauce with pasta. This dish is not only pleasing to the palate but also visually stunning, making it perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. Here at Cooking Classy, we’ll guide you through a simple yet delicious pasta primavera recipe that anyone can prepare!

The Essence of Pasta Primavera

Pasta primavera originated in Italy but has gained immense popularity across the globe. Its name translates to "spring pasta," highlighting the seasonal vegetables that typically accompany the dish. The beauty of pasta primavera lies in its versatility; you can use whichever vegetables you have on hand or those that are in season. This recipe celebrates the freshness of spring produce, incorporating an assortment of colours and textures that make each bite a joy.

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 300g (10.5 oz) of your choice of pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne work beautifully)
• Salt (for the pasta water)

For the Vegetable Medley:

• 1 medium courgette (zucchini), sliced into thin rounds
• 1 medium bell pepper (any colour), sliced
• 1 cup (150g) cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup (150g) asparagus spears, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1 carrot, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh herbs (such as basil or parsley), for garnish

For the Sauce:

• 60ml (¼ cup) vegetable or chicken broth
• 120ml (½ cup) heavy cream (optional)
• 60g (2 oz) grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Juice of ½ a lemon

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once bubbling, add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Reserve a cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Toss in the sliced courgette, bell pepper, asparagus, and carrot. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet still crisp.
3. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

1. Once the vegetables are cooked, pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and heavy cream (if using). Stir to combine, allowing the sauce to simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened.
2. Add the lemon zest and juice, and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and incorporated.

Step 4: Combine

1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the vegetable and sauce mixture. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
2. Adjust seasoning as needed, and remove from heat.

Step 5: Serve

1. Plate the pasta primavera, garnishing with fresh herbs and extra Parmesan cheese on top. Serve immediately, and enjoy the burst of flavours!

Conclusion

Pasta primavera is a fantastic way to embrace the flavours of spring while enjoying a comforting meal. This easy recipe allows you to customise with your favourite vegetables, making it a versatile dish for any occasion. Perfect as a main course or as a side, this pasta is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy your delightful and colourful plate of a seasonal delicacy, and share it with friends and family for a delightful dining experience! Happy cooking!

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