Fresh Pasta Primavera with Heirloom Tomatoes

Yield: 4 Servings

• 12 oz pasta (such as penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
• 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
• 1 medium yellow squash, sliced into half-moons
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 2-3 heirloom tomatoes, roughly chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
• Optional: red pepper flakes for a bit of heat

1) Cook the Pasta:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

2) Prepare the Vegetables:

• While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
• Add the bell pepper to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until it begins to soften.
• Add the zucchini and yellow squash, cooking for another 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
• Add the chopped heirloom tomatoes to the skillet, cooking for 1-2 minutes just until they start to soften and release their juices.

3) Combine Pasta and Vegetables:

• Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the vegetables. Toss to combine, adding some of the reserved pasta water a little at a time to help coat the pasta and create a light sauce.
• Stir in the Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, and fresh basil.
• Season with salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to taste.

4) Serve:

• Divide the pasta among serving plates and sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired. Serve immediately.

• Choose Your Heirloom Tomatoes: Heirloom tomatoes come in a variety of colors and flavors, from sweet to tangy. Choose a mix of different colors for a visually stunning dish with a greater depth of flavor.
• Serving Suggestion: This pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently to preserve the texture of the vegetables.