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Pasta Primavera

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Pasta Primavera is a colorful, veggie-packed meal that comes together quickly with simple ingredients. Tender-crisp zucchini, carrots, asparagus, and bell pepper are tossed with spaghetti, butter, and Parmesan for a light, flavorful dinner the whole family can enjoy.

It’s an easy way to use up extra vegetables and can be adapted with whatever is already in the fridge.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 zucchini
  • 2 carrots, peeled
  • 6 asparagus spears
  • 1 small red bell pepper, cored
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more for pasta water
  • 1 pound spaghetti
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Julienne the zucchini, carrots, asparagus, and bell pepper using a knife or a food processor with a shredding blade.
  2. Cook the spaghetti according to the package directions in a large pot of salted water.
  3. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a sauté pan over medium heat.
  4. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Add the vegetables and cook for another 3–4 minutes, until just tender. Season with salt.
  5. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/3 cup of the pasta water.
  6. Add the pasta, reserved pasta water, sautéed vegetables, butter, and Parmesan to a large bowl.
  7. Toss everything together until the butter and cheese melt into a light sauce.
  8. Serve warm with extra Parmesan, if desired.

Notes

  • Save the pasta water: The reserved starchy water helps the butter and Parmesan coat the pasta and vegetables.
  • Keep the vegetables crisp: Cook them just until tender to preserve their color, texture, and fresh flavor.
  • Use what’s on hand: Broccoli, peas, mushrooms, green beans, or yellow squash can easily join the mix.
  • For picky eaters: Keep some of the vegetables separate while cooking so everyone can build a bowl with the vegetables they enjoy.

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One Potato is a community and newsletter written by real people who are parents, having real conversations about our families, cooking traditions, and cultures. We are passionate about raising healthy and happy kids while navigating the challenges of picky eaters, dietary restrictions, busy schedules, and daily life.