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Penne-Pasta-Primavera-Recipe

Penne Pasta Primavera

Penne Pasta Primavera is a vibrant dish that combines al dente penne with fresh vegetables, all tossed in a zesty lemon butter sauce. Perfect for a quick, healthy meal!

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups uncooked penne pasta
  • 2 to 3 tablespoons butter divided
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 1 large carrot thinly sliced on the bias
  • 1 ½ cups broccoli florets
  • 1 red bell pepper cut into thin strips
  • 1 cup asparagus or zucchini cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 3/4 cup chicken broth or vegetable broth
  • juice from 1 lemon about ¼ cup
  • salt and pepper
  • parmesan cheese for serving, optional
  • fresh minced parsley for garnish, optional

Instructions

  1. Bring salted water to a boil and cook penne until one minute shy of al dente. Reserve ¼ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, warm 2 tablespoons of butter and olive oil. Add the onion, cooking until translucent, about 1 to 2 minutes.
  3. Add carrots, broccoli, bell pepper, asparagus or zucchini, and minced garlic in that order, cooking and stirring for 1 to 2 minutes after each addition. If the pan appears dry, add another tablespoon of butter before adding the asparagus. Season with salt and pepper, then transfer to a plate and set aside.
  4. In the empty skillet, add 1 tablespoon of butter, chicken broth, lemon juice, and reserved pasta water. Bring to a boil and simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, scraping up the browned bits.
  5. Stir in the pasta, continuing to simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce reduces by half and coats the noodles.
  6. Return the vegetables to the skillet and toss to combine. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve topped with freshly grated Parmesan and minced parsley, with lemon wedges on the side if desired.

Notes

The choice of vegetables can be customized based on seasonal availability.
For a richer flavor, consider adding cooked chicken or shrimp for added protein.
Ensure the pasta isn’t overcooked to maintain the perfect texture.

  • Author: Jesseca
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Dishes
  • Method: Sauté
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg