Easy One-Pot Pasta Primavera for a Healthy Vegetarian Dinner
This Easy One-Pot Pasta Primavera is a delightful and healthy vegetarian meal that showcases vibrant seasonal vegetables. The best part is that everything is cooked in one pot, making it both convenient and delicious. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish is colorful, nutritious, and packed with flavor!
Equipment
- 1 large pot or Dutch oven
- 1 wooden spoon or spatula
- 1 measuring cups
- 1 measuring spoons
- 1 cutting board
- 1 colander
Ingredients
- 12 ounces whole wheat pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium bell pepper (red or yellow), diced
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced
- 1 medium carrot, julienned
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- to taste salt
- to taste pepper
- for garnish fresh basil leaves optional
- for serving grated Parmesan cheese optional
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the bell pepper, zucchini, carrot, and broccoli. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Add the cherry tomatoes, vegetable broth, whole wheat pasta, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Remove the pot from heat and let it sit for a couple of minutes before serving. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve the pasta primavera hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Notes
Feel free to use any seasonal vegetables you have on hand.
This dish can be a great base; consider adding protein such as chickpeas or tofu to make it more filling.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.