Description
A vibrant and wholesome Pasta Primavera recipe featuring fresh vegetables, tender pasta, and a bright herb and lemon dressing. This easy and quick dish combines colorful garden-fresh flavors with a savory smoked turkey bacon twist and optional plant-based cheese for a healthy, satisfying meal ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 ounces penne or fettuccine pasta (substitute whole wheat or gluten-free as desired)
Vegetables
- 1 small red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup snap peas
- 1 cup asparagus, cut into 2-inch pieces
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Protein and Cheese
- 4 slices smoked turkey bacon, chopped
- 1/2 cup plant-based cheese (optional)
Seasonings and Dressing
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (natural)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (natural)
- 1 teaspoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving one cup of pasta water for later use to help bring the sauce together.
- Sauté the Smoked Turkey Bacon: In a large skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped smoked turkey bacon and cook until crispy and caramelized. Remove from the skillet and place on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
- Cook the Vegetables: Using the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Add minced garlic and fresh vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, snap peas, asparagus, and cherry tomatoes. Sauté for 5 to 7 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp and their colors brighten.
- Combine Pasta and Veggies: Return the cooked pasta to the skillet along with the crispy smoked turkey bacon. Stir gently to combine, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water to keep the mixture saucy and glossy.
- Add Flavor Boosters: Drizzle olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce over the pasta and vegetables. Toss in fresh basil and parsley. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Sprinkle plant-based cheese over the top if desired.
- Serve Warm: Give the dish a final gentle toss and serve immediately while warm. Garnish with extra fresh herbs and lemon wedges on the side for added brightness.
Notes
- Cut vegetables uniformly to ensure even cooking and a balanced texture.
- Reserve pasta water to loosen the sauce without diluting the flavor.
- Cook vegetables al dente to preserve their vibrant color and crunch.
- Add fresh herbs at the end to maintain their bright and aromatic flavor.
- Adjust acidity by balancing lemon juice and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce according to taste.
- Use a high-quality olive oil (natural) to elevate the dish’s depth and richness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg
Keywords: Pasta Primavera, pasta, fresh vegetables, quick meal, plant-based cheese, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, smoked turkey bacon, healthy dinner, easy recipe, gluten-free pasta
