Fresh Spring Pasta Primavera with Feta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fresh Spring Pasta Primavera with Feta is a vibrant and light dish that celebrates the best of spring vegetables. Packed with colorful produce like asparagus, cherry tomatoes, and peas, this pasta is tossed in a simple olive oil and garlic sauce, then topped with tangy feta for a bright, flavorful finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch, it’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

pasta (penne, farfalle, or spaghetti)asparaguscherry tomatoeszucchinisugar snap peasgreen peasgarlicolive oillemon juicelemon zestfresh basilfresh parsleycrushed red pepper flakes (optional)fetasaltblack pepper

directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Add chopped asparagus, snap peas, and zucchini. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until vegetables begin to soften.

Add cherry tomatoes and green peas, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes start to burst and peas are heated through.

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together.

Drizzle with lemon juice, add lemon zest, and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.

Remove from heat and stir in chopped fresh herbs.

Top with crumbled feta and serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 15 minutesTotal time: 25 minutes

Variations

Use goat cheese or shaved parmesan instead of feta for a different flavor profile.

Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein.

Toss in arugula or spinach at the end for an extra leafy green boost.

Try whole wheat or gluten-free pasta based on your dietary preference.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the pasta and revive the flavors.Avoid microwaving with feta already mixed in—add fresh feta after reheating for best texture.

Fresh Spring Pasta Primavera with Feta

FAQs

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, just thaw and drain them before adding to the skillet to avoid excess moisture.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely—just omit the feta or use a plant-based cheese alternative.

What’s the best pasta shape for this recipe?

Short pasta like penne or farfalle holds the veggies well, but any shape works.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. If making ahead, wait to add the herbs and feta until serving.

Is this recipe spicy?

Only if you add the red pepper flakes—it’s optional for a mild kick.

Conclusion

Fresh Spring Pasta Primavera with Feta is a celebration of seasonal produce and fresh flavors. Quick to prepare and bursting with color, it’s the perfect dish for a light yet satisfying meal. Whether you serve it warm or room temperature, this primavera will brighten your table and your taste buds.

Print
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Fresh Spring Pasta Primavera with Feta

Fresh Spring Pasta Primavera with Feta

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  • Author: simplemealsbykim
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A light and vibrant spring pasta dish loaded with fresh vegetables and topped with tangy feta cheese. Perfect for a quick and healthy meal.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 12 oz pasta (penne or farfalle)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup asparagus, chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 zucchini, sliced
  • 1 yellow squash, sliced
  • 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Add asparagus, zucchini, and yellow squash. Cook for 5-6 minutes until slightly tender.
  4. Stir in cherry tomatoes and peas. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until vegetables are just tender.
  5. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
  6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together.
  7. Drizzle with lemon juice and sprinkle with chopped basil.
  8. Top with crumbled feta cheese before serving.

Notes

  • Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if desired.
  • Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
  • Best served immediately but leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 390
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 410mg
  • Fat: 13g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 55g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Protein: 13g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg

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