Enchanting Springtime Pasta Toss

Celebrate the vibrant flavors of the season with this Enchanting Springtime Pasta Toss, a light yet satisfyingly wholesome dish that's perfect for warmer days. Featuring tender penne pasta, crisp asparagus, sweet peas, and juicy cherry tomatoes, this recipe is a medley of fresh ingredients that come together in just 35 minutes. A fragrant blend of garlic, lemon zest, and fresh basil adds brightness, while a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese ensures a rich, savory finish. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this one-pan wonder is as easy to prepare as it is to enjoy. Serve it as a main course for a casual family meal or as a delightful side dish at your next spring gathering. Keywords: spring pasta toss, fresh asparagus pasta, quick seasonal recipes, light vegetarian dinner.

Nutriscore Rating: 78/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 12 oz Penne pasta
• 1 lb Asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup Frozen peas
• 1.5 cups Cherry tomatoes, halved
• 3 tbsp Olive oil
• 3 cloves Garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp Lemon zest
• 0.5 cup Fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 tsp Salt
• 0.5 tsp Black pepper
• 0.25 tsp Red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tbsp Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.

Step 2

In the last 2 minutes of the pasta's cooking time, add the asparagus to the boiling water. In the last 1 minute, toss in the peas.

Step 3

Drain the pasta, asparagus, and peas together, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water. Set aside.

Step 4

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Step 5

Toss in the cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften.

Step 6

Add the drained pasta, asparagus, and peas to the skillet. Stir to combine.

Step 7

Sprinkle in the lemon zest, chopped basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well.

Step 8

Gradually add a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta cooking water if the dish seems dry, stirring until it reaches your desired consistency.

Step 9

Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until evenly distributed.

Step 10

Divide the pasta toss into serving dishes and garnish with additional Parmesan, fresh parsley, and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Step 11

Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh flavors of spring!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1401.6 grams (1401.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2061

Total Fat 62.10g	80%
Saturated Fat 14.80g	74%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.00g
Cholesterol 40mg	13%
Sodium 3077mg	134%
Total Carbohydrate 306.00g	111%
Dietary Fiber 36.80g	131%
Total Sugars 23.60g
Protein 82.40g	165%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 768mg	59%
Iron 30mg	168%
Potassium 2832mg	60%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 26.5%

Protein: 15.6%

Carbs: 57.9%