Angel Hair Pasta Primavera With Lemon

Name: Angel Hair Pasta Primavera With Lemon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz angel hair pasta; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 zucchini, sliced; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1 carrot, julienned; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; Salt and pepper to taste; Zest and juice of 1 lemon; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Clean Living Kitchen

I absolutely love making this Angel Hair Pasta Primavera with Lemon, especially during the spring when veggies are fresh and vibrant! The lemon zest brightens up the dish, elevating the natural flavors of the seasonal vegetables. It's a perfect weeknight meal that's ready in under 30 minutes, making it both delicious and convenient when I'm short on time. I often find myself experimenting with whatever fresh produce I have on hand, so it’s a versatile recipe I return to again and again.

Created by

Morgan Reeves

Last updated on 2026-02-27T20:53:35.372Z

When I first tried making Angel Hair Pasta Primavera, I was amazed by how quickly I could have a delicious meal on the table. The key is to sauté the vegetables just enough to keep their crunch while maintaining their vivid colors. Each bite becomes an explosion of flavor with the fresh lemon zest and a light drizzle of olive oil.

Another tip I learned along the way is to save a bit of the pasta water after boiling the pasta. Adding a splash of it to the finished dish helps all the flavors meld beautifully and gives it a silky smooth finish. Trust me, it's a game changer!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright and refreshing flavors that celebrate seasonal vegetables
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy nights
Lemon zest adds a delightful zing to every bite

The Art of Cooking Angel Hair Pasta

Cooking angel hair pasta is a delicate task due to its thin strands. It's crucial to monitor the timing closely, as it cooks significantly faster than other types of pasta, usually in just 3 to 5 minutes. To achieve the perfect al dente texture, test the pasta a minute before the package's suggested time. Once drained, make sure you do not rinse it, as the starchy surface will help the sauce cling better.

To enhance the flavor of your pasta, consider adding a splash of olive oil to the pot right after draining. This not only prevents the strands from sticking together but also adds an extra layer of richness. If you find the pasta clumping before mixing it with the sautéed vegetables, a bit of the reserved pasta water should easily remedy that.

Selecting and Preparing Fresh Vegetables

When preparing this Angel Hair Pasta Primavera, the quality of your vegetables makes a significant difference in the overall taste. Opt for fresh, seasonal ingredients whenever possible, as they are more flavorful and nutritious. For instance, tender summer squash is a fantastic substitute for zucchini during the warmer months, while asparagus or spinach can enhance the dish in spring.

Chopping the vegetables into uniform sizes ensures even cooking. For the carrot, using a julienne peeler or a mandoline can create consistent strips that cook quickly. As for the bell pepper, choose brightly colored varieties—like red or yellow—not only for flavor but also for visual appeal.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz angel hair pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 zucchini, sliced
1 bell pepper, sliced
1 carrot, julienned
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Salt and pepper to taste
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the angel hair pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the zucchini, bell pepper, and carrot, cooking for about 5 minutes until just tender.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, along with the cherry tomatoes, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired creaminess is reached. Season with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute any of the vegetables with your favorites or whatever you have available—it’s a great way to use up leftovers!

Variations to Try

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable! You can easily incorporate cooked proteins, such as shrimp or grilled chicken, if you're looking to make it more hearty. Just sauté the protein in the skillet before adding the vegetables to ensure they are evenly cooked and infused with flavor. Alternatively, for a meat-free version, add chickpeas or white beans for a satisfying protein kick.

Feel free to mix up the vegetables based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. Broccoli florets, snap peas, or even artichoke hearts make excellent additions. Just be mindful of cooking times; adding heartier vegetables earlier while leaving delicate ones for later will keep everything perfectly tender.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can prepare components of this dish in advance, which is a huge time-saver on busy weeknights. Chop your vegetables ahead of time and store them in sealed containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also cook the pasta earlier in the day, but remember to toss it with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.

If you find yourself with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat; adding a splash of water or additional lemon juice will help revive the dish without drying it out. Avoid the microwave as it can make the pasta gummy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the vegetables in advance and store them in the fridge. Just cook the pasta when you’re ready to serve.

→ What other vegetables work well in this recipe?

You can add broccoli, asparagus, or spinach for more color and nutrition. Each option will contribute a unique flavor!

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes! This dish is entirely plant-based, making it perfect for vegans. Just ensure that you use vegan pasta.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

You can substitute the angel hair pasta with a gluten-free pasta option available at most grocery stores.