Print

Fresh Garlic Butter Pasta Primavera

fresh garlic butter pasta primavera - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick and comforting pasta dish featuring fresh garlic, butter, and vibrant vegetables tossed together for a flavorful and colorful meal perfect for weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz (225 g) pasta (linguine, fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne)
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup snap peas, trimmed
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn (optional)
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 oz (225 g) of your chosen pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes). Reserve 1/2 cup (120 ml) of pasta water before draining.
  2. While the pasta cooks, prepare the vegetables: slice 1 medium zucchini into half-moons, halve 1 cup cherry tomatoes, thinly slice 1 red bell pepper, and trim 1 cup snap peas. Set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, melt 4 tbsp unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 4 cloves minced fresh garlic and sauté gently for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
  4. Add the zucchini, bell pepper, and snap peas to the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
  5. Stir in the cherry tomatoes and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes. Cook for another 2 minutes until tomatoes soften slightly.
  6. Drain the pasta and add it directly to the skillet with the vegetables. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time to loosen the sauce and help it cling to the pasta.
  7. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Squeeze in 1 tbsp lemon juice and toss again to brighten the flavors.
  8. Remove from heat and stir in 1/4 cup torn fresh basil leaves. If using, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
  9. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

Keep an eye on the garlic while sautéing to avoid burning. Reserve pasta water to create a silky sauce texture. Use fresh garlic for best flavor. For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with olive oil and omit Parmesan or use vegan cheese. To keep vegetables crisp, cook over medium to medium-high heat and avoid overcooking.

Nutrition

Keywords: pasta primavera, garlic butter pasta, easy pasta recipe, vegetarian pasta, quick dinner, vibrant vegetables, weeknight meal

Find it online: https://goldensimmer.com/fresh-garlic-butter-pasta-primavera-recipe-easy-vibrant-veggies-guide/