Vegetable Primavera with Penne

A colorful and fresh pasta dish is packed with vibrant vegetables and a light, flavorful sauce that’s perfect for any season. It’s an easy, healthy meal that comes together quickly, making it great for busy weeknights or casual dinners.

★★★★★5(2 reviews)Updated: Mar 31, 2026

Prep Time 15 min

Cook Time 20 min

Total Time 35 min

Difficulty Medium

Ingredients 0/8

1 tablespoon olive oil 1 clove garlic, crushed 2 cups broccoli florets 1 medium carrot, julienned 2 cups vegetable broth 1 (8 ounce) package penne pasta ½ cup frozen peas ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

What Makes This Recipe Unique

Vibrant and full of fresh flavors. It combines colorful vegetables with tender pasta for a light yet satisfying meal. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch.

Helpful Kitchen Tips

- Use fresh, seasonal vegetables for the best taste and texture.
- Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente to hold up well with the sauce.
- Save some pasta water to add to the sauce if it feels too thick or dry.

Step 1

Heat some olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the garlic and cook it gently until it’s soft and fragrant. Take the garlic out and set it aside. Next, toss in the broccoli and carrots, cooking them for just a couple of minutes until they’re warmed through.

Step 2

Meanwhile, bring the vegetable broth to a boil in a pot. Add the penne pasta along with the cooked garlic you set aside earlier. Let it cook for about 5 minutes, until the pasta is almost tender. Once done, fish out the garlic and discard it.

Step 3

Pour the pasta and broth mixture into the skillet with the veggies, then stir in the peas. Cover the skillet and let everything cook together over medium heat for around 10 minutes, until the pasta is fully cooked and the vegetables are nice and tender.

Step 4

Finally, give it all a good toss with some Parmesan cheese before serving. Enjoy!

Serving Inspiration

Serve with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a handful of fresh basil leaves. A side of garlic bread or a simple green salad pairs nicely. For a protein boost, add grilled chicken or shrimp on the side.

Storage Suggestions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Avoid freezing, as the vegetables may lose their texture.

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By Sophia Martinez

Kitchen Specialist

Sophia develops recipes that are quick, practical, and perfect for daily meals.