Savory Summer Vegetable Pasta

Embrace the flavors of summer with this delightful and easy-to-make Savory Summer Vegetable Pasta. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this recipe features fresh, locally sourced ingredients. By shopping at Tru Value Foods, you're not only getting the freshest ingredients but also supporting local farmers and businesses. Enjoy this meal with your family and friends, knowing that you're contributing to your community's well-being. Bon appétit!

Pro Tip: To speed up the prep process, consider pre-chopping your vegetables and storing them in the refrigerator. Fresh produce maintains its nutritional value and flavor better when minimally processed and used promptly. Additionally, using high-quality olive oil enhances the dish's flavor profile, so opt for extra virgin olive oil for the best results.

• Pasta:
  • 12 oz. Penne Pasta (or your favorite pasta shape)
• Vegetables:
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes, halved
  • 1 medium Zucchini, sliced
  • 1 medium Yellow Squash, sliced
  • 1 Red Bell Pepper, chopped
  • 1/2 cup of chopped cooked asparagus
  • 1 cup Fresh Spinach, roughly chopped
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• Herbs & Seasoning:
  • 1/2 cup Fresh Basil, chopped
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil
  • 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (optional)
  • Salt and Pepper, to taste
  • Red Pepper Flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)

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1. Cook the Pasta:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
   • While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
   • Add the chopped red bell pepper, zucchini, and yellow squash to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.
3. Combine Everything:
   • Add the cherry tomatoes and spinach to the skillet. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the tomatoes are slightly softened and the spinach is wilted.
   • Season the vegetables with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
   • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil and mix well.
4. Finish and Serve:
   • Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the chopped fresh basil.
   • If desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
   • Serve immediately, garnished with additional basil or Parmesan if you like.

Note: Adjust ingredient quantities and substitutions based on what's available at your local Tru Value Foods store.

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