Fresh Spring Pasta Primavera with Feta

Spring is the perfect time to enjoy light and vibrant dishes that showcase the season’s freshest produce. This Fresh Spring Pasta Primavera with Feta combines tender pasta with an array of colorful vegetables and creamy feta cheese, creating a delightful meal that’s both satisfying and wholesome.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Seasonal Ingredients: Utilizes fresh spring vegetables like asparagus, cherry tomatoes, and peas for a burst of flavor and nutrition.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable to include your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand.
• Vegetarian-Friendly: A hearty meatless meal that’s still rich in protein and flavor.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• penne pasta
• extra-virgin olive oil
• garlic cloves
• red onion
• asparagus
• cherry tomatoes
• zucchini
• frozen peas
• fresh spinach
• feta cheese
• fresh basil
• fresh lemon juice
• red pepper flakes
• salt and freshly ground black pepper

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and red onion, sautéing until fragrant and the onion becomes translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the Vegetables: To the skillet, add the chopped asparagus, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced zucchini. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and the tomatoes begin to burst.
4. Incorporate the Peas and Spinach: Stir in the frozen peas and fresh spinach, cooking until the spinach wilts and the peas are heated through, about 2 minutes.
5. Combine Pasta and Vegetables: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour in the reserved pasta water and stir to combine, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to coat the pasta evenly.
6. Season and Add Feta: Stir in the fresh lemon juice and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese and chopped basil, reserving some for garnish.
7. Serve: Divide the pasta among serving bowls. Garnish with the remaining feta and basil. Serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Protein Addition: For added protein, consider incorporating grilled chicken or shrimp.
• Different Vegetables: Feel free to substitute or add other seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or artichoke hearts.
• Pasta Choices: While penne is used here, other pasta shapes like farfalle or fusilli work well too.
• Herb Substitutions: Replace basil with other fresh herbs such as parsley or tarragon for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce if needed. Alternatively, microwave individual portions until warmed through.

FAQs

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Simply substitute the regular penne pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta variety.

Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh peas can be used. Blanch them briefly before adding to the skillet to ensure they are tender.

Is there a vegan alternative to feta cheese?

You can use a plant-based feta substitute or omit the cheese entirely and add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

What can I use instead of spinach?

Kale or arugula are great alternatives to spinach in this recipe.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

While best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time and combine them just before serving.

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?

Toss the drained pasta with a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking if not combining immediately with the sauce.

Can I add olives to this dish?

Absolutely, adding Kalamata or black olives can enhance the Mediterranean flavors.

What type of feta cheese is best?

Opt for a high-quality block of feta cheese for the best flavor and texture.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it reheats well and can be a great option for meal prepping lunches.

Can I serve this pasta cold?

Yes, this pasta can be enjoyed cold as a pasta salad, making it versatile for picnics or potlucks.

Conclusion

This Fresh Spring Pasta Primavera with Feta is a celebration of seasonal produce, bringing together a medley of vibrant vegetables and creamy feta cheese in a delightful pasta dish. It’s quick, healthy, and bursting with flavor—perfect for spring meals that are as nourishing as they are satisfying.

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