Pasta Primavera is a colorful, vibrant dish packed with a variety of fresh vegetables, tossed with tender pasta in a light, flavorful sauce. This One Pot Pasta Primavera simplifies the traditional recipe by bringing everything together in a single pot, making it an ideal choice for a quick and satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This One Pot Pasta Primavera is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a wholesome meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s loaded with fresh vegetables, requires minimal clean-up, and is easily customizable based on the veggies you have on hand. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak more vegetables into your diet while still enjoying a comforting, hearty pasta dish.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Penne or fettuccine pasta
Olive oil
Garlic cloves
Onion
Carrots
Bell peppers (various colors)
Zucchini
Yellow squash
Broccoli florets
Cherry tomatoes
Vegetable broth
Heavy cream (optional)
Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil
Salt and pepper

directions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add minced garlic and diced onion, sautéing until fragrant.
Add the carrots, bell peppers, zucchini, yellow squash, and broccoli. Cook for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
Stir in the pasta, vegetable broth, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring to a boil.
Reduce heat to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, about 10-12 minutes.
Add cherry tomatoes during the last few minutes of cooking.
Stir in heavy cream (if using) and Parmesan cheese until well combined.
Garnish with fresh basil and additional Parmesan cheese before serving.

Servings and timing

This One Pot Pasta Primavera serves 4 and takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook.

Variations

Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for additional protein.
Use whole wheat pasta or gluten-free pasta to meet dietary needs.
Swap out the vegetables based on seasonality or personal preference, such as asparagus, peas, or spinach.
For a dairy-free version, omit the cream and cheese and use a plant-based alternative.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm the pasta in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of vegetable broth or water to maintain the creamy texture. Alternatively, microwave individual portions for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

How can I make this recipe vegan?

You can easily make this pasta vegan by omitting the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese or substituting them with plant-based alternatives.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, you can use frozen vegetables; however, fresh vegetables will provide better texture and flavor.

What type of pasta works best for Pasta Primavera?

Short pasta like penne, rotini, or farfalle work best, but you can also use spaghetti or fettuccine.

How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?

Make sure to stir occasionally and monitor the cooking time closely to prevent overcooking.

Can I make Pasta Primavera ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently to maintain the best texture.

Is it necessary to use heavy cream?

No, the heavy cream is optional and can be omitted if you prefer a lighter dish.

Can I add more broth if the pasta absorbs it too quickly?

Yes, feel free to add more vegetable broth as needed to achieve the desired consistency.

What other cheeses can I use besides Parmesan?

You can use Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or even a sprinkle of feta for a different flavor profile.

How do I make the sauce creamier?

Adding a bit more cream or even a spoonful of cream cheese can make the sauce extra creamy.

Can I freeze Pasta Primavera?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it for up to one month. Thaw and reheat gently to avoid a mushy texture.

Conclusion

This One Pot Pasta Primavera is an easy, delicious, and versatile meal that showcases the best of seasonal vegetables. Whether you stick to the classic version or customize it to your liking, it’s sure to become a family favorite thanks to its vibrant flavors and effortless preparation. Enjoy a healthy, satisfying meal with minimal clean-up required.