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Pesto pasta primavera shines with fresh, colorful ingredients. The main star is the pasta. I recommend fusilli or penne for this dish. They hold the sauce well and add nice texture.

Pesto Pasta Primavera

Elevate your dinner game with this vibrant Pesto Pasta Primavera recipe! Packed with fresh veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes, this dish is not just a feast for the eyes but also bursting with flavor. Learn how to create this quick and easy meal in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests. Click through to discover the full recipe and customize it to your taste!
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Ingredients
  

300g pasta (fusilli or penne works best)

1 cup fresh basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 bell pepper (red or yellow), diced

1 zucchini, sliced into half-moons

1 cup broccoli florets

1 cup snap peas, trimmed

3 tablespoons olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

Salt and black pepper to taste

Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

    Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet or frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

      Add Veggies: Add the cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, zucchini, broccoli, and snap peas to the skillet. Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are tender but still vibrant.

        Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour in the basil pesto and reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency (you may not need all the water). Toss everything together until well combined, and heat through for another 2-3 minutes.

          Season: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as desired.

            Serve: Divide the pasta primavera among serving plates. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, if using, and garnish with fresh basil leaves.

              Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

                - Presentation Tips: Serve the pasta in a large bowl or plated individually. Drizzle with a little extra olive oil for shine and top with additional basil leaves for a pop of color.