Spring Vegetable Pasta with Goat Cheese

This Spring Vegetable Pasta with Goat Cheese is a delightful way to welcome the warmer months! Imagine fresh vegetables dancing on your plate, vibrant greens, and creamy goat cheese that melts into each bite. It’s a dish that perfectly captures the essence of spring, showcasing the best ingredients that the season has to offer. Whether you’re a cooking novice or a seasoned chef, you’ll find that this recipe is simple, quick, and bursting with flavor. So, gather your friends or family and prepare to indulge in a colorful plate of pasta that’s nourishing and delicious. Let’s roll up our sleeves and get cooking!

Jump to:

• Why This Recipe Works
• Why You’ll Love This Spring Vegetable Pasta with Goat Cheese
• Ingredients
• Cook Time
• Cooking Instructions
• Bring Water to a Boil
• Cook Pasta Al Dente
• Sauté Garlic in Olive Oil
• Add Asparagus to the Skillet
• Mix in Peas and Greens
• Add Lemon Zest and Juice
• Combine Pasta with Vegetables
• Finish with Goat Cheese and Herbs
• Serving Suggestions
• Tips for Success
• Variations
• FAQs
• More Easy Main Dishes Recipes:
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why This Recipe Works

This Spring Vegetable Pasta with Goat Cheese combines seasonal ingredients with a harmonious blend of flavors. The al dente pasta serves as a perfect canvas for the fresh vegetables, and the tangy goat cheese elevates the dish, creating a delightful balance of textures and tastes. Not only does it look stunning on your table, but every bite is also a celebration of spring. With each forkful, you’ll experience the brightness of the veggies paired with the creamy richness of the cheese. This dish is not just food; it’s a joyful experience that brings people together.

Why You’ll Love This Spring Vegetable Pasta with Goat Cheese

If you’re looking for a quick, light meal that celebrates spring’s bounty, this pasta dish is your answer. Packed with nutrients, vibrant colors, and fresh herbs, it adds a touch of elegance to weeknight dinners—all while being vegetarian and gluten-free friendly. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal right at home. Plus, the versatility of this dish allows you to customize it to your taste. It’s perfect for those nights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1/2 lb penne pasta
• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 3 Tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tsp fresh garlic, minced
• 1 cup asparagus, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup fresh English or snap peas, shelled
• 1–2 cups (packed) baby arugula
• Small handful of pea shoots (optional)
• Half of one small lemon, juiced and zested
• 3 oz goat cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• 1 Tbsp flat-leaf Italian parsley, minced
• 1 Tbsp chives, minced
• Kosher salt and freshly-ground black pepper, to taste

Cook Time

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

Cooking Instructions

Bring Water to a Boil

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. The salt enhances the pasta’s flavor.

Cook Pasta Al Dente

Once the water is boiling, add the penne pasta. Cook according to package directions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally. After it’s done, drain the pasta and set it aside.

Sauté Garlic in Olive Oil

While your pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers. Add the unsalted butter and minced garlic. Sauté until golden and fragrant, which should take about 1-2 minutes. The aroma will make your mouth water!

Add Asparagus to the Skillet

Next, toss the chopped asparagus into the skillet. Stir them in and let them cook until they start to soften, which takes about 2-3 minutes.

Mix in Peas and Greens

Now it’s time to add the shelled peas, baby arugula, and pea shoots, if you’re using them. Sauté everything together for another 1-2 minutes. You want the vegetables to be tender but still vibrantly green. Season generously with kosher salt and freshly-ground black pepper to taste.

Add Lemon Zest and Juice

Squeeze in the juice of half a lemon and sprinkle the zest over the sautéed vegetables. This adds brightness to the dish, tying all the flavors together. Stir everything to ensure it’s combined well.

Combine Pasta with Vegetables

After that, introduce the cooked pasta into the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well mixed with the vegetables. The colors should blend beautifully.

Finish with Goat Cheese and Herbs

Finally, top your pasta with crumbled goat cheese, Parmesan cheese, and a sprinkle of freshly minced parsley and chives. This final touch adds freshness and elevates the dish. Divide the pasta between bowls, and feel free to serve with extra Parmesan on the side. Enjoy each delightful bite!

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, enhancing the lightness of the meal. You might also consider serving it with warm garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce or a light white wine like Pinot Grigio, which complements the flavors perfectly.

Tips for Success

• For added depth, consider including roasted cherry tomatoes or bell peppers. They add sweetness and a pop of color.
• Adjust the amount of goat cheese based on your preference for tangy flavors. More cheese means more richness!
• Make sure to season the vegetables adequately for the best taste. Fresh herbs can elevate simple dishes.

Variations

• Swap out the penne for gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles for a low-carb alternative. Both options work surprisingly well!
• Experiment with different greens. Spinach, kale, or Swiss chard can bring their unique tastes to this dish.
• If you want to boost protein, grilled chicken or shrimp can be delicious additions.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! Feta or ricotta serve as delicious alternatives to goat cheese, each bringing a unique flavor.

2. How can I make this dish vegan?
Simply replace the goat cheese with a vegan alternative and use olive oil instead of butter for a plant-based version.

3. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sautéed vegetables and cook the pasta ahead of time. Just combine everything just before serving, ensuring a fresh taste.

4. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

5. Can I freeze this dish?
Freezing is not advised as the texture of the vegetables may change, making it best enjoyed fresh.

This Spring Vegetable Pasta with Goat Cheese isn’t just a meal; it’s a vibrant celebration of flavor and freshness. Perfect for busy weeknights or a leisurely weekend dinner, this dish brings brightness to your table. With simple ingredients and easy prep, it’s sure to become a regular feature in your household. Enjoy every delightful bite!

More Easy Main Dishes Recipes:

• Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells
• Garlic Butter Salmon
• Strawberry Spinach Pasta Salad
• Cheesy Baked Asparagus

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