Description
Summer Veg Pasta is a vibrant and healthy main course featuring a medley of fresh seasonal vegetables sautéed to perfection and tossed with al dente pasta. This dish is lightly dressed with olive oil, garlic, and fresh basil, then finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, making it a simple yet flavorful meal ideal for quick weeknight dinners or a light summer lunch.
Ingredients
Vegetables:
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 yellow squash, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Pasta & Seasonings:
- 12 ounces pasta of choice
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook 12 ounces of your chosen pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.
- Sauté the vegetables: While the pasta cooks, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced zucchini, yellow squash, diced red bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté the vegetables for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are tender but still crisp.
- Add cherry tomatoes: Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Toss pasta with vegetables: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Pour in some reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the mixture and help the flavors combine evenly.
- Finish the dish: Stir in ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese and 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil until well combined and the cheese begins to melt into the pasta.
- Season and serve: Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve the pasta warm, optionally garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh basil.
Notes
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for additional protein to make it a more substantial meal.
- Feel free to substitute or add any other seasonal vegetables you prefer or have on hand.
- Finishing with extra Parmesan cheese enhances the flavor and adds a pleasant cheesy finish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
