Pasta Primavera

Bright, colorful, and packed with fresh flavor, this Pasta Primavera is an easy way to enjoy a delicious mix of vegetables and creamy pasta. Daisy Cottage Cheese adds a rich, creamy texture and protein, making this simple pasta dish both satisfying and delicious.

Toss your favorite pasta with tender seasonal vegetables and a smooth cottage cheese for a comforting meal that comes together with minimal fuss. The mild flavor of Daisy Cottage Cheese lets the fresh vegetables shine while adding a creamy boost of protein.

Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a meatless meal, this easy Pasta Primavera is a fresh and flavorful recipe the whole family will love. Use whatever vegetables you have on hand to make this versatile pasta your own!

Pasta Primavera Ingredients

  • Cherry Tomatoes (2 cups): Adds vibrant color and a sweet-tart pop of flavor and juicy moisture to the pasta.
  • Sliced Mushrooms (1 cup): Provides a rich, savory flavor and meaty texture that balances the tomatoes.
  • Garlic Cloves (6): Adds an aromatic, earthy, savory flavor that adds depth and balances the bright flavor of the other vegetables.
  • Daisy Cottage Cheese (1 cup, blended): Provides a rich and creamy texture and a boost of protein.
  • Olive Oil (1/4 cup): Adds subtle flavor, coats the vegetables to help them cook without overpowering their delicate flavor.
  • Fresh Cracked Black Pepper (to taste): Delivers a sharp, pungent, and earthy heat.
  • Italian Seasoning (2 teaspoons): Adds a savory, blend of dried herbs like oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary that complement fresh garden vegetables.
  • Red Pepper Flakes (to taste): Provides a gentle pop of heat that balances the sweet vegetables.
  • Bite-Size Pasta (8 ounces): The perfect starchy canvas that accompanies the luscious vegetables. The small shape allows for the perfect bite of both pasta and veggies in a single forkful.
  • Packed Baby Spinach (2 cups): With a milk flavor and vibrant color, it adds visual appeal and nutrients, vitamins, and minerals.
  • Reserved Pasta Water (2 tablespoons to 1/4 cup): Used to loosen the dish if desired.

Substitutions, Variations, and Tips

  • For best results, make sure to salt your pasta water and cook pasta just to al dente.
  • Any type of dry bite-size pasta may be used. Feel free to use whatever you have on hand.
  • Zucchini noodles or whole grains such as farro or quinoa may be used in place of pasta for a gluten-free option.
  • Easily customizable, feel free to add cubed rotisserie chicken or other cooked protein to make a heartier meal.
  • Feel free to add additional veggies such as fresh asparagus, peas, zucchini, squash, bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli.
  • Make sure your veggies are similar in size to ensure even cooking time.
  • Feel free to add a generous sprinkle of parmesan or Romano cheese for extra richness and nutty flavor.
  • Try adding a quick zest of lemon for a bright burst of flavor or add some fresh herbs such as basil or rosemary for a burst of herby goodness.

How to Make Pasta Primavera

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
  2. Place tomatoes, mushrooms, garlic cloves, and blended cottage cheese into a 9×13” pan. Drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with black pepper, Italian seasoning, and optional crushed red pepper. Bake for 30 minutes, until tomatoes burst. Stir.
  3. Meanwhile, boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water.
  4. Add hot pasta and spinach to sauce and allow to sit 2-3 minutes before serving. If too thick, add pasta water, a tablespoon at a time.