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Healthy Pasta Primavera

Pasta Primavera is a classic Italian dish that is not only delicious, but also packed with healthy and nutritious ingredients. This dish is a great way to incorporate a variety of vegetables into your diet, making it a perfect choice for those looking to eat a balanced and wholesome meal. The word "primavera" means "spring" in Italian, and this dish typically features an array of fresh, seasonal vegetables, making it a perfect option for a light and refreshing meal.

Prep Time:

20 mins

Cook Time:

20 mins

Total Time:

40 mins

Servings:

Yield:

4 servings

Ingredients

2 cups whole grain penne pasta

1 tablespoon olive oil

½ cup chopped onion

1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces

2 cups sliced fresh mushrooms

1 small yellow summer squash, halved lengthwise and sliced

2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

½ cup shredded carrot

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano

½ teaspoon ground black pepper

¼ teaspoon salt

⅛ teaspoon red pepper flakes

½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Lemon wedges

Directions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add penne and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender yet firm to the bite, about 11 minutes.

Step 2

Meanwhile, heat oil in an extra-large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion; cook until softened, 2 to 3 minutes. Add asparagus, mushrooms, and squash; cook until just tender, about 5 minutes. Add tomatoes, carrot, garlic, oregano, black pepper, salt, and red pepper flakes; cook until tomatoes begin to soften, about 1 minute.

Step 3

Drain penne; stir into vegetable mixture along with 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese. Top servings with remaining cheese and serve with lemon wedges.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

281

Calories

Fat

42g

Carbs

16g

Protein

Complement

Healthy Pasta Primavera is not only a great way to enjoy a variety of vegetables, but it also provides a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. By using whole grain pasta, this dish becomes even more nutritious, as it offers more fiber and nutrients compared to traditional white pasta. Additionally, by using olive oil and fresh herbs for flavor, rather than heavy cream or butter, Healthy Pasta Primavera is a lighter and more heart-healthy option. Whether you're looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal or a dish to impress your dinner guests, Healthy Pasta Primavera is a versatile and satisfying option that can easily be customized to suit your tastes and dietary preferences.