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Colorful Spring Pasta Recipe

Delicious Colorful Spring Pasta Recipe for Fresh Flavors

This Colorful Spring Pasta recipe celebrates fresh flavors and vibrant veggies, perfect for quick weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Pasta Your favorite type, like penne or spaghetti; gluten-free pasta also works beautifully.
For the Sauté
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil A healthy fat that enhances vegetable flavors.
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced) Adds aromatic depth to your dish.
  • 1 cup Asparagus Adds a fresh crunch and bright color; substitute with broccoli or zucchini if desired.
  • 1 cup Bell Peppers Any variety works; provides vibrant color.
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Bursts with juiciness; regular tomatoes can work in a pinch.
  • 1 cup Frozen Peas Sweet and nutritious; fresh peas can be used if available.
  • 1/4 cup Basil (fresh, chopped) Elevates the dish with freshness.
  • 1/4 cup Parsley (fresh, chopped) Elevates the dish with freshness.
  • 1 tsp Salt Essential for enhancing overall flavor.
  • 1 tsp Pepper Essential for enhancing overall flavor.
  • 1/2 tsp Red Pepper Flakes For a hint of heat; optional.
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese or Nutritional Yeast Adds umami richness; omit for dairy-free.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water before draining.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Toss in the asparagus, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes into the skillet. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet vibrant.
  4. Stir in the frozen peas and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Then, add the chopped basil and parsley, mixing well to combine.
  5. Carefully add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together gently. Use reserved pasta water if the mixture feels dry.
  6. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste. Stir well and cook for another minute. Serve warm, garnished with Parmesan or nutritional yeast.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 12gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 7mgSodium: 325mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 7gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 1200IUVitamin C: 50mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Ensure vegetables stay vibrant and crisp by not overcooking them. You can add cream or ricotta for a richer flavor before serving.

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