This Easy Summer Pasta Primavera is a colorful and fresh dish loaded with veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. It’s light, tasty, and perfect for hot days!
Cooking this dish feels like a sunshine party! I love how quick it comes together—just throw the veggies in a pan and mix them with pasta. Yum!
For a twist, I sometimes add a sprinkle of Parmesan or some herbs. It makes it feel extra special! Enjoying it outside with friends is the best way to celebrate summer!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using fettuccine or tagliatelle in this recipe. They hold the sauce beautifully! If you prefer gluten-free or lighter options, choose zucchini noodles or whole wheat pasta.
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp definitely adds a wonderful taste. If you can’t find fresh, using frozen shrimp is a great alternative. Just thaw it before cooking!
Vegetables: The yellow bell pepper and zucchini provide color and crunch. Switch them up with whatever’s in season! Bell peppers, asparagus, or broccoli work well too.
Basil: Fresh basil gives an aromatic touch. If you don’t have any, try parsley or a sprinkle of dried Italian herbs!
How Can I Cook Shrimp Perfectly Every Time?
Cooking shrimp quickly is key to keeping them tender and juicy. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a hot skillet and add a bit of oil. This prevents sticking.
- Season shrimp with salt and pepper; this enhances their taste.
- Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Don’t overcook!
If you’re using frozen shrimp, remember to thaw them fully before cooking for the best results!
Easy Summer Pasta Primavera with Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz fettuccine or tagliatelle pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus extra for sautéing
- 1 cup yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup zucchini, sliced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 tablespoon lemon juice for brightness
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 25-30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and about 15-20 minutes for cooking. Perfect for a quick summer meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine or tagliatelle pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside, but remember to reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Next, add the diced yellow bell pepper and sliced zucchini, cooking for about 4-5 minutes until they are tender yet still crisp.
4. Add Tomatoes and Combine:
Now, add the quartered cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, just until they start to soften. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and stir everything together to combine.
5. Mix Everything Together:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the veggies and shrimp. Toss gently to combine all the ingredients. Then add the chopped basil, grated Parmesan cheese, and a splash of the reserved pasta water if the mixture seems dry. Give it a good toss to ensure everything is well-coated.
6. Final Touches:
Take a moment to taste your dish! Adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and if you like, a splash of lemon juice for added brightness.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your vibrant pasta primavera immediately. Top it with additional grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired. Enjoy every delicious bite!
This quick and delightful pasta dish is perfect for warm summer evenings—enjoy!
FAQ for Easy Summer Pasta Primavera with Shrimp
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While fettuccine or tagliatelle is ideal, you can substitute with other pasta shapes like penne, farfalle, or even whole wheat pasta. Just keep an eye on cooking times as they may vary.
What Vegetables Can I Substitute?
Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables based on your preference! Asparagus, broccoli, or even baby spinach are great alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to keep them tender yet crisp.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or olive oil to bring back moisture.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Sure! Simply omit the shrimp and add more vegetables or plant-based protein like tofu or chickpeas. You can also replace the Parmesan with a vegan cheese alternative if desired!
