Emeril Lagasse Pasta Primavera Recipe

Emeril Lagasse’s Pasta Primavera recipe is a must-try for any pasta lover!

This dish brings together the perfect mix of vegetables and pasta, creating a colorful and flavorful meal.

You’ll love how easy it is to make with simple, fresh ingredients.

The key to this recipe is using seasonal vegetables; it adds freshness and vibrant flavors.

Don’t forget to reserve some of the pasta cooking water; it helps to create a silky, smooth sauce!

I enjoy this recipe because it’s light, versatile, and always a hit at dinner.

How to Make Emeril Lagasse Pasta Primavera

Ingredients

• 12 oz. Rotini
• 3/4 cup Cooking Water (reserved)
• 3 tbsp Butter
• 2 tbsp Olive Oil
• 1 Onion (medium, chopped)
• 2 Garlic Cloves (minced)
• 1 cup Chicken Broth
• 1/2 cup Heavy Cream
• 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (grated)
• Salt and Pepper (to taste)
• 1 cup Broccoli (cut into small florets)
• 1 cup Bell Peppers (sliced)
• 1 cup Carrots (sliced)
• 1/2 cup Cherry Tomatoes (halved)
• Fresh Basil (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Step 2:

Add the rotini to the boiling water and cook until just tender, about 11 minutes.

Step 3:

Drain the pasta, reserving 3/4 cup of the cooking water, and set it aside.

Step 4:

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter and add the olive oil.

Step 5:

Add the onion and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes until it softens.

Step 6:

Add the garlic and cook, stirring, for 30 seconds.

Step 7:

Stir in the broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots.

Step 8:

Cook until the vegetables are slightly tender, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 9:

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream.

Step 10:

Bring to a simmer, then stir in the Parmesan cheese.

Step 11:

Season with salt and pepper.

Step 12:

Add the reserved pasta water, cooked pasta, and cherry tomatoes to the pan.

Step 13:

Toss everything together to coat the pasta and vegetables evenly. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Use Fresh Ingredients:

The fresher your vegetables, the better the Pasta Primavera will taste!

Don’t Overcook Pasta:

Make sure the pasta is al dente to maintain its texture when mixed with the sauce and vegetables.

Adjust Creaminess:

If you prefer a creamier sauce, you can increase the amount of heavy cream slightly.

Add Protein:

Grilled chicken or shrimp can be a great addition to this dish if you are looking to add some protein.

Keep It Colorful:

Using a variety of colorful vegetables not only makes the dish visually appealing but also adds nutritional value.

What to Serve with Emeril Lagasse Pasta Primavera

Garlic Bread

Garlic bread is a classic option.

It’s easy to make—just toast some baguette slices, rub them with garlic, and spread with butter.

Pop them in the oven until they’re golden brown.

Caesar Salad

A Caesar salad works great for a refreshing, crisp side.

You can make it with romaine lettuce, croutons, Parmesan cheese, and a light Caesar dressing.

Roasted Artichokes

Surprise your guests with roasted artichokes.

They’re delicious when brushed with olive oil, seasoned with salt, and roasted until tender.

Grilled Asparagus

Grilled asparagus is another delightful choice.

Just toss the asparagus in olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and grill until tender.

Lemon zest adds a nice touch!

Tomato Mozzarella Salad

Tomato mozzarella salad is a fresh and tasty addition.

Slice tomatoes and fresh mozzarella, then drizzle with balsamic vinegar and olive oil.

Top with fresh basil for a burst of flavor.

Variations and Substitutions

Feel free to swap out vegetables based on what you have on hand or prefer.

Instead of green beans, asparagus can be a delightful substitution.

Red bell peppers, broccoli, and even snap peas can also work wonders.

If you want a protein boost, add cooked shrimp or chicken.

For a vegetarian twist, use tofu or tempeh.

Reduce the butter or replace it with a bit more olive oil for a lighter option.

Pasta Choices

You’re not limited to rotini!

Penna, fusilli, or even spaghetti can provide different textures.

Experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if dietary restrictions are a concern.

Sauce Adjustments

To make it creamier, add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese at the end.

For a lighter sauce, use more of the reserved pasta cooking water and a bit of lemon juice for zest.

Spice It Up

Spice lovers can throw in some red pepper flakes when sautéing vegetables.

A sprinkle of grated parmesan or pecorino before serving adds a salty, umami finish.

Hop in and enjoy customizing your Pasta Primavera!

How to Store Leftover Pasta Primavera

Allow the Pasta Primavera to cool completely before storing it.

Once cool, transfer the pasta to airtight containers.

Refrigeration

Place the airtight containers in the refrigerator.

The pasta will stay fresh for up to 3-5 days.

I recommend using glass containers for better results.

Freezing

For longer storage, freezing is an option.

Use freezer-safe containers or zip-lock bags.

Lay the bags flat in the freezer to save space.

Consider the Sauce

Creamy or cheese-based sauces might change texture after freezing.

Always label your containers with the date.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping the Salt in Pasta Water

When making Pasta Primavera, it’s essential to salt your pasta water generously.

Unsalted water can result in bland pasta, affecting the dish’s overall flavor.

Overcooking the Vegetables

It’s easy to overcook the vegetables, which can cause them to lose their vibrant colors and crisp texture.

Keep an eye on them, cooking them just until they are tender yet still slightly crisp.

Not Using Cooking Water

The starchy cooking water you reserve is key to achieving a cohesive sauce.

Adding even a little bit of this water helps to bind the ingredients together, resulting in smoother, more flavorful pasta.