This colorful Summer Pasta Primavera is packed with fresh veggies like peppers, zucchini, and tomatoes. It’s light, tasty, and perfect for warm days!
I love how quick this dish comes together—just toss the pasta and veggies in a pan, and dinner is ready! It’s like bringing sunshine to my plate! ☀️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fettuccine Pasta: This recipe calls for fettuccine, but you can swap in any pasta you like! Penne, linguine, or even whole wheat pasta work just as well. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose.
Shrimp: I love using shrimp for a nice protein boost, but if you want a vegetarian option, you can replace the shrimp with chickpeas or tofu. Both will absorb the flavors nicely!
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini adds a crunch and mild flavor. If zucchini isn’t in season, summer squash or even asparagus can be great substitutes. Just cut them into similar sizes for even cooking.
Fresh Basil: Basil gives this dish a fresh taste. If you can’t find fresh basil, you could use dried basil—just use about a third of the amount as dried herbs are more concentrated. Fresh parsley or oregano can also add a nice twist!
How Do I Cook Shrimp Perfectly Without Overcooking?
Cooking shrimp might seem tricky, but it’s quite simple once you know a few tips. The key is to keep an eye on the color and texture.
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the shrimp to ensure they cook evenly.
- Sauté shrimp for about 3-4 minutes. They turn pink and opaque when fully cooked.
- Remove them from the heat as soon as they look done. Overcooked shrimp become tough and rubbery, so it’s better to err on the side of undercooked if using residual heat!
How to Make Summer Pasta Primavera
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 cup shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 bell pepper (yellow or orange), diced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Summer Pasta Primavera takes about 25 minutes to prepare. It includes approximately 10 minutes for cooking the fettuccine and another 15 minutes for sautéing the shrimp and veggies. You’ll have a fresh and tasty meal ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the fettuccine pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s nice and al dente. Once done, drain the pasta, but make sure to save a little bit of the pasta water for later, just in case!
2. Sauté the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the prepared shrimp to the skillet, seasoning them with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Cook the shrimp for about 3-4 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, transfer them to a plate and set aside.
3. Cook the Garlic and Vegetables:
In the same skillet, pour in the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Next, toss in the sliced zucchini, diced bell pepper, and halved cherry tomatoes. Cook these veggies for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and slightly charred.
4. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Then, add the drained fettuccine pasta. Toss everything together until all ingredients are well combined. If the pasta appears too dry, drizzle in a splash of the reserved pasta water to moisten it up.
5. Add Fresh Flavors:
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped fresh basil and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. This will give your dish a wonderful aroma and fresh flavor.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish out the pasta primavera into bowls and sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top. If you like a little heat, now’s the time to add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Dig in and enjoy your bright and flavorful summer pasta!
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While fettuccine works great, you can substitute it with any pasta shape you prefer, like penne, spaghetti, or even gluten-free options. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.
What Can I Use Instead of Shrimp?
If shrimp isn’t your thing, feel free to swap it out for grilled chicken, sautéed tofu, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure everything is cooked through.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of water to help loosen the sauce.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
To make this pasta primavera vegan, simply omit the shrimp and Parmesan cheese, and replace the butter with olive oil. You can add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. Enjoy your light and fresh dish!
