Certainly! Here’s a detailed breakdown of the Pasta Salad Primavera recipe:
Pasta Salad Primavera
Description: This Pasta Salad Primavera is a quick and flavorful dish that combines al dente pasta with vibrant vegetables, mozzarella cheese, and a light tomato sauce. It’s perfect for a refreshing meal or a side dish at any gathering.
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Recipe Category: Quick & Easy (< 30 mins)
Keywords: Easy, Pasta Salad, Vegetarian
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 377.3
- Fat: 7.7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 22.4mg
- Sodium: 517.9mg
- Carbohydrates: 59.8g
- Fiber: 6.2g
- Sugar: 8.6g
- Protein: 18.6g
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup peas
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 plum tomato, diced
- 1 bunch scallions, thinly sliced
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, cubed
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- Pepper, to taste
Instructions:
-
Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain well and set aside.
-
Prepare the Vegetables:
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the vegetables.
- Steam the broccoli florets, peas, and diced zucchini until they are slightly tender but still crisp.
- Run cold water over the steamed vegetables to stop the cooking process.
- Drain well and set aside.
-
Combine Pasta and Vegetables:
- In a large mixing bowl, toss together the cooked pasta, steamed vegetables, diced plum tomato, sliced scallions, and cubed mozzarella cheese.
-
Add the Sauce:
- Pour the tomato sauce over the pasta and vegetables.
- Toss gently to coat everything evenly with the sauce.
-
Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese over the pasta salad.
- Season with freshly ground pepper, to taste.
- Serve immediately, or chill in the refrigerator before serving for a cold pasta salad option.
Chef’s Tips:
- You can customize this recipe by adding other seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus.
- For a creamy variation, mix in a tablespoon or two of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt with the tomato sauce.
- This pasta salad is great for picnics, potlucks, or as a light lunch option.
Enjoy your Pasta Salad Primavera!
