As the weather warms up and fresh produce fills the markets, it’s the perfect time to enjoy a light and flavorful spring pasta recipe. This dish celebrates the best of the season—think crisp asparagus, sweet peas, cherry tomatoes, and vibrant herbs—all tossed with your favorite pasta in a zesty lemon and olive oil dressing. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy meal to share with friends, this spring pasta is fresh, satisfying, and ready in just 30 minutes. It’s the kind of recipe that proves simple ingredients can create something truly delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Spring Pasta Recipe
Fresh Seasonal Ingredients
What makes this spring pasta truly special is the use of fresh, in-season vegetables that highlight the best of spring. Asparagus, one of the season’s stars, adds a tender crunch and subtle earthy flavor that stands out in every bite. Paired with sweet green peas, you get a pop of color and a natural sweetness that balances beautifully with the savory elements of the dish.
Cherry tomatoes bring a bright, juicy acidity that bursts as they warm, blending with the olive oil and lemon to create a light, natural sauce. And to finish it off, a few handfuls of baby spinach melt into the warm pasta, adding a silky texture and a boost of nutrition without overpowering the dish. Combined, these ingredients create a fresh, colorful, and satisfying pasta that captures the essence of spring in every forkful.
Light and Satisfying
This spring pasta offers just the right mix of cozy comfort and fresh, wholesome goodness. Instead of heavy cream sauces or rich meats, it’s made with olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh vegetables—making it a healthier option without sacrificing flavor. The result is a dish that feels satisfying and filling, yet never too heavy, making it ideal for warmer weather.
It’s the kind of pasta you can enjoy on a sunny evening with minimal effort, and still feel energized afterward. Whether you’re eating it on its own or pairing it with a simple side salad, this dish fits effortlessly into a lighter spring dinner routine. Plus, it’s a great option if you’re looking for something fresh but still comforting.
Quick and Easy to Make
This spring pasta is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a fast, delicious meal. In under 30 minutes, you’ll have a flavorful dish ready to serve. The recipe uses simple ingredients that don’t require much prep time, making it easy for anyone to pull together. While the pasta cooks, you can sauté the vegetables, keeping the process quick and efficient. No need for fancy tools or complex techniques—just straightforward steps for a satisfying dinner. Whether you’re cooking for one or a family, this pasta makes getting dinner on the table effortless.
Ingredients You’ll Need for the Perfect Spring Pasta
Pasta of Choice
- Fettuccine – This wide, flat pasta is ideal for catching the light, lemon-herb sauce. Its smooth texture helps distribute the sauce evenly, making every bite perfectly coated. Fettuccine is great for creating a rich, silky feel, balancing the freshness of the spring vegetables.
- Penne – The ridged surface of penne makes it perfect for holding onto sauces, especially the light, zesty lemon dressing. The tubular shape adds a satisfying bite, giving the dish a heartier texture without weighing it down. Penne is a reliable, go-to pasta that complements the crispness of the seasonal veggies.
- Farfalle – This fun, bow-tie-shaped pasta adds a playful touch to the dish while still holding the sauce well. Its shape provides a bit of extra texture and works wonderfully with the vegetables, creating a balanced bite in every mouthful. Farfalle’s unique form enhances the light and refreshing feel of the dish, perfect for a spring meal.
Spring Vegetables
- Asparagus – Asparagus, a classic spring vegetable, adds a crunchy texture and earthy flavor to the dish. Its tender stalks bring a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the softness of the pasta. Lightly sautéed or blanched, asparagus retains its vibrant green color and fresh taste.
- Peas – Tender and sweet, peas add a burst of flavor and vibrant color to the dish. Their soft texture blends well with the other vegetables, while their subtle flavor balances the lightness of the lemon sauce.
- Zucchini – Zucchini offers a mild, subtly sweet taste that pairs wonderfully with the other vegetables. Its delicate texture holds up well in the dish, adding a gentle bite without overpowering the other ingredients.
- Arugula – Arugula contributes a peppery zing and a bright, fresh green hue to the dish. As it wilts into the warm pasta, it adds a slight bitterness that enhances the freshness of the vegetables and balances the citrusy flavors of the lemon.
Flavor Boosters
- Garlic – Sautéed garlic infuses the dish with a savory, aromatic flavor that enhances the freshness of the spring vegetables. Its slightly sweet and rich taste adds depth to the light, zesty pasta.
- Lemon Juice – Fresh lemon juice adds a vibrant citrus zing that balances the smooth richness of olive oil beautifully. It adds a refreshing zing, lifting the overall flavor of the dish and tying everything together.
- Olive Oil – Olive oil acts as the foundation of the sauce, offering a smooth, fruity flavor that perfectly coats both the pasta and vegetables. It enhances the textures of the dish and adds a silky finish.
- Fresh Basil – Fresh basil adds a fragrant, herbaceous layer to the dish. Its peppery, sweet notes complement the lemon and garlic, adding a refreshing complexity to the flavors.
- Parmesan – A sprinkle of parmesan finishes the dish with a creamy, umami-rich kick. It melts into the pasta, providing a savory depth that enhances the vibrant flavors of the vegetables and sauce.
How to Make This Light and Delicious Spring Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Prepare Veggies
For this recipe, you will need:
- 200g pasta (fettuccine, penne, or farfalle)
- 1 bunch asparagus (about 8-10 stalks)
- 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1 small zucchini (sliced into half-moons or chunks)
- 2 cups arugula (washed and torn)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped)
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions:
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to the package instructions, aiming for al dente texture.
- Drain the pasta, reserving a small cup of pasta water for later use.
- Trim the asparagus, cut into bite-sized pieces, and blanch in boiling water for 2-3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Thaw the peas in warm water if using frozen.
- Slice the zucchini into half-moons or small chunks and sauté in olive oil until tender.
- Wash and tear the fresh arugula and set aside.
Step 2: Toss Everything Together
- Incorporate the vegetables – After the pasta is cooked, add the asparagus, zucchini, peas, and arugula to the pan with the pasta, stirring gently to combine.
- Squeeze in the lemon juice – Drizzle the fresh lemon juice over the pasta and vegetables, then toss to evenly distribute the bright, tangy flavor.
- Incorporate fresh basil – Stir in the freshly chopped basil, allowing the herb’s aroma to infuse the dish.
- Create a silky sauce – If needed, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to help bring everything together and create a smooth, light sauce.
- Season and garnish – Add salt and pepper to taste, then top with a generous sprinkle of parmesan for added creaminess and flavor.
Step 3: Finish and Serve
- Add the finishing touches – Once the pasta and vegetables are well combined, top the dish with a generous amount of grated parmesan or crumbled feta for extra creaminess and a tangy flavor boost.
- Garnish with fresh basil – Sprinkle a handful of fresh basil leaves on top for a fragrant, herbaceous finish.
- Serve immediately – Serve the pasta warm, and enjoy the vibrant flavors of spring in each bite!
This spring pasta recipe is the perfect way to celebrate the season’s fresh flavors. With vibrant vegetables, a light lemon-herb sauce, and simple preparation, it’s ideal for quick weeknight dinners or relaxed weekend meals. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, this dish brings comfort and brightness to the table.
Craving more seasonal dishes? Take a look at my favorite spring salads for fresh, vibrant ideas to enjoy this season.