Name: Italian Vegetable Primavera with Whole Wheat Pasta
Prep time: 35 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz whole wheat penne pasta; 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil; 1 small red onion, thinly sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons; 1 medium yellow squash, sliced into half-moons; 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 2 cups baby spinach; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper

Italian Vegetable Primavera with Whole Wheat Pasta

CreamyGrape8067

This Italian Vegetable Primavera is a vibrant, wholesome dinner that brings together the best of seasonal California produce in a satisfying, classic Italian style. Using whole wheat penne boosts fiber and keeps you fuller longer, while a rainbow of sautéed vegetables delivers vitamins and bold flavor. Finishing the pasta directly in the pan with the vegetables and a splash of reserved pasta water ensures every bite is coated in a light, silky sauce. Topped with a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh basil, this dish feels indulgent while staying light—perfect for anyone looking to eat more veggies and support a healthy lifestyle. Ready in under 40 minutes and beginner-friendly, it's a dinner you'll crave again and again.

Ingredients

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne and cook until just shy of al dente (about 2 minutes less than package instructions). Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until just softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add zucchini, yellow squash, and bell pepper. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until vegetables are crisp-tender.
Add cherry tomatoes and spinach. Cook for 2-3 minutes until tomatoes begin to soften and spinach wilts.
Add drained pasta to the pan along with reserved pasta water. Toss everything together and cook for 2 more minutes, allowing the sauce to emulsify and coat the pasta.
Remove from heat. Stir in Parmesan, fresh basil, salt, and pepper. Toss well and serve immediately, garnishing with extra basil if desired.