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To make pesto pasta primavera, you need a few key ingredients. Start with 8 oz of whole wheat pasta. Fusilli or penne works best. You will also need 2 cups of broccoli florets. Add 1 cup of assorted bell peppers, sliced. Include 1 cup of sliced zucchini and 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes. Fresh basil pesto adds great flavor, so use 1/2 cup. Olive oil, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper round out the list. Each ingredient brings fresh taste and nutrients.

Pesto Pasta Primavera

Brighten up your dinner table with a delightful bowl of Pesto Pasta Primavera! This fresh and flavorful recipe combines whole wheat pasta with vibrant vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, and zucchini, all tossed in creamy basil pesto. Perfect for impressing family and friends, this dish is simple to prepare and can be tailored to fit any dietary need. Ready to explore this delicious recipe? Click through for all the details and tips!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz whole wheat pasta (fusilli or penne works great)

2 cups broccoli florets

1 cup bell peppers (assorted colors), sliced

1 cup zucchini, sliced

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/2 cup fresh basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

    Blanch the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the broccoli florets and cook for 2 minutes. Then add the sliced bell peppers and zucchini, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until bright and slightly tender. Finally, stir in the cherry tomatoes for an additional minute. Drain all the vegetables and set them aside.

      Combine: In the pot, over medium heat, add the olive oil and the drained pasta and vegetables. Pour in the fresh basil pesto and mix well, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired creaminess.

        Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you like, sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor, mixing until melted and combined.

          Serve: Plate the pesto pasta primavera immediately, garnishing each dish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor.

            Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

              - Presentation Tips: Serve in large bowls and drizzle with a little more olive oil. Add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and a few whole basil leaves on top for a vibrant finish.