Budget-Friendly Pasta Primavera

This Easy Budget-Friendly Veggie-Packed Pasta Primavera is a delicious, family-friendly dinner full of fresh flavors and nutrients. At just $1.60 per serving, it’s a cost-effective way to enjoy a healthy and tasty pasta dish any night of the week. Leftovers are great for lunch the next day!

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini) - $1.00

• 1 zucchini, sliced - $0.70

• 1 bell pepper, sliced (any color) - $0.80

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - $1.00

• 1 cup broccoli florets - $1.00

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - $1.00

• 2 tbsp olive oil - $0.20

• 2 cloves garlic, minced - $0.20

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh basil for garnish (optional) - $0.50

Total Cost: ~$6.40 (serves 4, $1.60 per serving)

Instructions
Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the zucchini, bell pepper, broccoli, and cherry tomatoes, sautéing for 5-7 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with the reserved pasta water and toss to coat. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, season with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve warm.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 380

• Protein: 12g

• Fat: 12g

• Carbohydrates: 56g

• Fiber: 6g

• Sodium: 300mg

• Serving Size: 1 portion (serves 4)

Things You’ll Love About This Recipe

• Fresh, colorful, and packed with nutritious veggies

• Light yet satisfying, perfect for a family meal

• Budget-friendly with simple ingredients

• Ready in 25 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights

Expert Tips for Best Results

• Cook the pasta just until al dente to avoid overcooking when added to the skillet

• Save some pasta water to help create a light sauce with the cheese

• Add the tomatoes at the end for a burst of freshness

Substitutions

• Swap Parmesan for feta or goat cheese for a different flavor

• Use any vegetables on hand like spinach, mushrooms, or carrots

• Try whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for dietary preferences

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of garlic bread or breadsticks for extra heartiness

• Pair with a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal

• Top with crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick