Colorful Pasta Primavera
Ingredients:
For the Pasta:
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12 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne)
For the Vegetables:
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1 cup sugar snap peas, trimmed
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1 cup baby carrots, sliced on the diagonal
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1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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1 cup young zucchini, sliced
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1/2 cup tender broccoli or broccolini, cut into bite-sized pieces
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1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
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1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
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1 cup purple cauliflower florets
- 1 cup asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces
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2-3 cloves garlic, minced
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Zest of 1 lemon
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Juice of 1 lemon
For the Sauce:
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1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
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Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions:
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Cook the Pasta:
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
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Sauté the Vegetables:
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In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
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Add the purple cauliflower, asparagus, baby carrots, and broccoli. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.
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Add the sugar snap peas, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until all vegetables are tender but still vibrant in color.
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Combine:
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Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour in the reserved pasta water gradually, along with the lemon juice and zest. Toss everything together to combine.
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Stir in the Parmesan cheese, torn basil, and parsley. Season with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using).
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Serve:
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Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and herbs as desired.
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Tips for a Standout Version:
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Consider adding toasted pine nuts for extra crunch and flavor.
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Use butternut squash or sweet peas as the base for the sauce, blending them with a little bit of cream or vegetable broth for a silky texture.
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For a vegan version, substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast.
Enjoy your colorful and vibrant pasta primavera, highlighted by the unique addition of
purple cauliflower!
