Angel Hair Pasta Primavera With Lemon

Name: Angel Hair Pasta Primavera With Lemon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz angel hair pasta; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup zucchini, sliced; 1 cup bell peppers, diced (any color); 1/2 cup peas (fresh or frozen); 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1 lemon (zest and juice); Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy Kitchen Moments

I love making Angel Hair Pasta Primavera with Lemon because it’s a quick and vibrant dish that bursts with freshness. The combination of light pasta and seasonal vegetables tossed in a zesty lemon sauce is simply irresistible. I often prepare this meal on busy weeknights, and it never fails to impress my family and friends. Plus, it's a wonderful way to showcase what's in season and add a burst of color to the table, making every bite both delicious and visually appealing.

Created by

Ivy Richardson

Last updated on 2026-02-27T16:05:35.400Z

When I first made Angel Hair Pasta Primavera with Lemon, I was amazed by how quickly it came together while still delivering on taste. The key to achieving that vibrant flavor is using fresh, seasonal vegetables and the zest of the lemon, which really elevates the dish. I was pleasantly surprised at how the subtle notes of garlic complemented the freshness of the veggies.

Over time, I discovered that to make this meal even more special, I could experiment with adding a handful of fresh herbs like basil or parsley right before serving. This not only enhances the flavor but adds a lovely fragrance as well. It has become a staple for gatherings and a personal favorite in my home!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Delicate angel hair pasta tossed with colorful, fresh vegetables
Zingy lemon flavor that brightens up every bite
Quick and easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive for guests

Fresh Vegetable Selection

Choosing the right vegetables is key to achieving a vibrant Angel Hair Pasta Primavera. Opt for seasonal vegetables like asparagus, snap peas, or bell peppers, which not only provide color but also varying textures that enhance the dish. While I used zucchini and cherry tomatoes in this recipe, feel free to experiment with vegetables that are fresh and at their peak. The quicker cooking time of angel hair allows for tender-crisp veggies that preserve their natural sweetness and nutrients.

To ensure even cooking, cut your vegetables into similar sizes. For instance, slice zucchini into half-moons and dice bell peppers into bite-sized pieces. This will make for an appealing presentation and a cohesive eating experience. If you're using frozen peas, there's no need to thaw them, as they will warm up quickly once added to the hot pasta.

Perfecting the Lemon Zest

Lemon zest is a game-changer in this dish, infusing it with a bright, fresh flavor that lifts the overall taste profile. When zesting, be sure to use a microplane or a fine grater to avoid the bitter white pith. The zest should be vibrant and fragrant, indicating it’s packed with essential oils. I recommend zesting before juicing the lemon, as it’s easier to manage and captures more oils.

If you want to add a touch of warmth to the lemon flavor, consider using lemon-infused olive oil instead of regular olive oil. It will provide a deeper, richer taste to the sautéed vegetables. You could also add a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic for an extra layer of flavor that complements the zesty lemon.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

For busy weeknights, you can prepare components of this dish ahead of time. Cook the angel hair pasta and store it in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the pasta gently in a skillet with a splash of olive oil or your reserved pasta water to bring it back to temperature without overcooking.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days. However, keep in mind that the vegetables might lose their crunch. You can easily reheat the pasta in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little more olive oil and fresh lemon juice to revive those bright flavors. This way, you’ll still enjoy a delicious meal without compromising on taste.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients

8 oz angel hair pasta
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup zucchini, sliced
1 cup bell peppers, diced (any color)
1/2 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup olive oil
1 lemon (zest and juice)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Make sure you have everything ready to go before you start!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Angel Hair Pasta Primavera:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, add the angel hair pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Then, add the zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are just tender.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with the peas, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Toss everything together. If the pasta seems dry, add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Season and Serve

Season the pasta primavera with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Angel Hair Pasta Primavera!

Pro Tips

For an added twist, consider incorporating seasonal vegetables like asparagus or snap peas, and don't hesitate to sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra richness.

Flavor Enhancements

To elevate the flavor profile of your Angel Hair Pasta Primavera, consider incorporating a splash of white wine when sautéing the vegetables. This will add depth and complexity, enhancing the dish with subtle acidity. Allow the wine to reduce for about a minute before adding the pasta, letting the alcohol evaporate while retaining the vibrant flavor.

You can also experiment with different herbs. While fresh basil is a classic garnish, adding fresh parsley or even a sprinkle of oregano can give a delightful twist. Adding fresh herbs right at the end of cooking ensures their oils are retained, providing optimal flavor.

Customizations for Dietary Preferences

This recipe is highly adaptable for various dietary needs. For a gluten-free version, substitute angel hair pasta with gluten-free noodles made from rice or lentils. These alternatives cook quickly and will still soak up the flavors from the lemon and vegetables beautifully.

If you're looking to increase the protein content, consider adding grilled chicken breast or sautéed shrimp. These proteins pair seamlessly with the light flavors of the primavera while ensuring the dish remains vibrant and filling. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan can also enhance richness without overwhelming the freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Angel Hair Pasta Primavera serves beautifully in a large, shallow bowl to showcase the colorful vegetables. I like to finish each serving with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a generous dusting of fresh lemon zest. This additional touch creates a restaurant-quality presentation that is sure to impress.

Serve alongside crusty bread or a light salad to round out the meal. A simple arugula salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette complements the brightness of the pasta, making it an excellent pairing. You can also offer a choice of lemon wedges on the side, allowing guests to adjust the citrus intensity to their liking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! While angel hair works great, you can substitute it with your favorite pasta shape.

→ Is this dish vegan-friendly?

Yes, just omit any cheese and make sure your pasta is made without eggs for a vegan option.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove.

→ Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free pasta to adapt this recipe to a gluten-free diet.