Drew Barrymore-Inspired Pasta Primavera is a fresh and vibrant dish that perfectly captures Drew's love for simple, wholesome meals with big flavors. Packed with colorful vegetables, garlic, and Parmesan, this pasta primavera is light, flavorful, and so satisfying. The combination of sautéed veggies, zesty lemon, and grated Parmesan makes for a dish that’s as comforting as it is nourishing. Plus, it comes together in just 30 minutes, making it the perfect weeknight meal.
Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe
- Healthy and vibrant with a variety of vegetables
- Quick and easy—ready in just 30 minutes
- Light yet satisfying—perfect for a light dinner or lunch
- Full of flavor with fresh basil, garlic, and lemon
- Customizable—add your favorite veggies or protein
What Makes This Pasta Primavera Special?
The key to this pasta primavera is in the fresh, vibrant vegetables. The onion, cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, zucchini, and carrots all cook in a savory mix of olive oil, butter, and a splash of chicken broth, creating a beautifully saucy base. As the pasta finishes cooking in the sauce, it absorbs all the rich flavors. The lemon juice and Parmesan add a bright, tangy finish, while fresh basil brings a touch of freshness to each bite.
Cooking Tips for Best Results
- Use al dente pasta: This gives a better texture when tossed with the vegetables and sauce.
- Reserve pasta water: The starchy pasta water helps bind the sauce and pasta together.
- Use fresh, seasonal vegetables: Choose veggies that are in season for the best flavor and texture.
- Customize your veggies: Feel free to swap in vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or peas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pasta vegan?
Yes! Swap out the butter for olive oil, and use a dairy-free cheese in place of the Parmesan to make this a vegan-friendly dish.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely! You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even tofu for added protein. Just cook it separately and toss it with the pasta at the end.
What other vegetables can I use?
Feel free to add or swap in any vegetables you like, such as asparagus, broccoli, or peas. Use what’s in season for the best flavor.
Can I make this ahead of time?
This dish is best served fresh. However, you can prep the vegetables ahead of time and store the cooked pasta separately for a quick assembly when you're ready to eat.
How to Store
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or stovetop with a splash of water or olive oil to loosen up the sauce.
How to Freeze
This dish doesn't freeze well due to the vegetables. It's best enjoyed fresh.
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 2 tbsps olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- ½ cup sliced onion
- ⅓ cup quartered cherry tomatoes
- ½ cup sliced red bell pepper
- ½ cup chopped zucchini
- ½ cup carrot ribbons
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup reserved pasta water
- ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Juice of ½ lemon
- Fresh basil, torn
- Crushed red pepper flakes, to taste (optional)
How to Make Drew Barrymore-Inspired Pasta Primavera
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions, until al dente (about 12 minutes). Reserve ¼ cup of the pasta water before draining the rest of the pasta.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cherry tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and the tomatoes begin to turn jammy.
- Add red bell pepper, zucchini, carrot ribbons, and garlic. Cook for 3–5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp. Add a pinch of salt and pepper, to taste.
- Pour in the chicken broth and let everything simmer for a few minutes, until the vegetables are tender and the pan looks saucy.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the vegetables. Add ¼ cup of reserved pasta water and toss everything together. Let the pasta finish cooking in the sauce, stirring to coat the pasta.
- Remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and fresh basil. If you like, sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Serve immediately, garnished with more Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. Enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side salad or garlic bread
- Pair with a light white wine like Pinot Grigio
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal
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