Pasta Fresca Recipe
There’s just something magical about Pasta Fresca that always draws a crowd—even if it’s just you at the table! With its fresh, vibrant veggies, silky balsamic-kissed sauce, and the soft bite of perfectly cooked penne, this recipe will instantly become your answer to midweek dinner blues and impromptu gatherings. A harmonious blend of comforting pasta, earthy mushrooms, sweet grape tomatoes, briny capers, and leafy spinach, Pasta Fresca truly sings with color, flavor, and ease. Whether you’re tossing it together for a solo treat or impressing your dinner guests, every forkful celebrates simple ingredients turned into something simply unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Pasta Fresca is how each easy-to-find ingredient brings its own magic to the mix: from the base of olive oil and pasta to that kick of balsamic vinegar and the melty finish of Parmesan. Every item is essential—together they create a tapestry of flavor, texture, and color.
- Penne Pasta (1 lb.): Choose a shape like penne—it holds the sauce well and gives each bite substantial texture.
- Olive Oil (2 tablespoons + more): The backbone for roasting and flavor, and perfect for coating your pasta to prevent sticking.
- Red Onion (1/2 small, sliced): A mild sweetness that balances acidity and adds beautiful color.
- Baby Bella Mushrooms (8 oz., sliced): Earthy depth and juicy character that soak up all those fabulous flavors.
- Garlic (6 cloves, minced): For bold aroma and warmth in every bite.
- Italian Seasoning (2 teaspoons): The secret to layering in those classic Mediterranean notes.
- Balsamic Vinegar (1/2 cup): Deftly lifts and sweetens the sauce while giving it a tangy backbone.
- Grape Tomatoes (1 pint, halved): Pop-of-sweetness and vibrant color right in the mix.
- Capers (3.5 oz. jar, drained): Add a briny zest for delightful bursts in every forkful.
- Fresh Baby Spinach (4 cups, chopped): Wilts down to creamy perfection, boosting nutrition and lush green color.
- Heavy Cream (1/4 cup, optional): For an extra-luxurious, rich finish—but it’s fabulous without, too!
- Kosher Salt & Fresh Cracked Pepper: Season boldly at every step for maximum flavor.
- Shaved Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup, for serving): The salty, nutty crowning glory to each bowl.
- Fresh Chopped Parsley (for serving): Adds a pop of fresh color and vibrant, herby aroma.
How to Make Pasta Fresca
Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta
Bring a big pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil, then add penne and cook to al dente—just until it’s cooked but still has some bite. Drain and toss with a splash of olive oil to keep those lovely noodles from sticking together while you move on to the fresh sauce.
Step 2: Sauté Your Vegetables
Heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a wide sauté pan over medium. Add the sliced red onion and baby Bella mushrooms, plus a good pinch of salt and cracked black pepper. Sauté for about three minutes, stirring occasionally until the onions begin to soften and the mushrooms start to brown and release their juices.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Italian Seasoning
Toss in the minced garlic and Italian seasoning. Stir constantly for about a minute—your kitchen will suddenly smell absolutely incredible. This step builds layers of flavor that really make Pasta Fresca stand out.
Step 4: Create the Sauce Base
Pour in the balsamic vinegar and toss in halved grape tomatoes and drained capers. Sprinkle in another pinch of salt and pepper. Let everything come to a gentle simmer, then lower the heat and continue to simmer for about three minutes. This melds the flavors and lets the tomatoes soften beautifully.
Step 5: Wilt the Spinach
Add the roughly chopped fresh spinach into the pan. Stir just until wilted—this will happen in under a minute, turning the whole sauce a vibrant, glossy green. If you want a richer sauce, drizzle in the optional heavy cream and stir until combined.
Step 6: Finish with Pasta
Add your cooked penne pasta right into the pan with the veggie balsamic sauce. Toss and stir it well, making sure every piece gets generously coated. Allow the pasta to warm through for a couple of minutes, soaking up all those gorgeous flavors.
Step 7: Season and Garnish
Taste your Pasta Fresca and adjust the seasoning with a final pinch of salt and pepper if needed. Off the heat, shower it with shaved Parmesan and plenty of chopped fresh parsley. Transfer straight to your serving platter or bowls—then get ready to dig in!
How to Serve Pasta Fresca
Garnishes
For a truly memorable presentation, never skip the finishing touches: a fluffy pile of shaved Parmesan melts just right over hot pasta, while fresh parsley adds that restaurant-worthy look and a spark of freshness. A drizzle of good olive oil or a sprinkle of extra black pepper won’t hurt, either!
Side Dishes
Pasta Fresca is perfection on its own, but if you’re feeling generous, serve it with crusty focaccia or garlic bread to mop up all that tangy sauce. A crisp garden salad or a platter of roasted veggies makes for a nourishing, well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn Pasta Fresca into a dazzling centerpiece by piling it high in a big serving bowl and letting guests help themselves. For date night, serve in shallow bowls with twirled nests of pasta, topped with extra capers and Parmesan. Or, make tiny appetizer portions using small cups for a party-friendly twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cool any leftover Pasta Fresca to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container. It’ll keep happily in the refrigerator for up to three days—making tomorrow’s lunch a total treat, especially as the flavors develop overnight.
Freezing
While fresh pasta dishes are best enjoyed right away, you can freeze Pasta Fresca if you need to. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, and it’ll be good for up to two months. Just know that the spinach may soften more upon thawing, but the taste remains deliciously intact.
Reheating
To reheat, add a splash of water or extra cream to loosen the sauce. Warm Pasta Fresca gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring until hot. The microwave works too—and don’t forget to refresh with extra Parmesan and parsley before serving.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for Pasta Fresca?
Absolutely! While penne is traditional, you can use rigatoni, fusilli, or even spaghetti. The essence of Pasta Fresca is in its fresh sauce and vegetables, so feel free to use your favorite shape.
Is there a way to make Pasta Fresca vegan?
Definitely. Just skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative, and omit the cream or swap in your favorite plant-based milk. The rest of the ingredients are already vegan-friendly!
What protein can I add to make this a heartier meal?
Grilled chicken, shrimp, or white beans blend beautifully with the flavors of Pasta Fresca. Simply stir your cooked protein in at the final step for an even more satisfying dish.
Can I make Pasta Fresca in advance for a party?
You can quickly assemble the sauce ahead of time, refrigerate it, and cook your pasta just before serving. Toss everything together and garnish right before bringing it to the table for best texture and flavor.
What’s the secret to keeping the pasta from sticking?
Tossing hot, drained pasta with a glug of olive oil before adding it to the sauce works wonders. Also, keep the pasta a little undercooked so it finishes in the sauce, soaking up extra flavor and staying supple.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dish that feels elegant yet effortlessly simple, Pasta Fresca is the answer. Try it once, and you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again—don’t be surprised if it becomes your signature meal for any occasion!
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Pasta Fresca Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Pasta Fresca is a flavorful and satisfying pasta dish featuring a medley of ingredients like mushrooms, tomatoes, capers, and spinach, all tossed in a balsamic vinegar sauce. This recipe is easy to make and bursting with savory Italian flavors.
Ingredients
Pasta:
- 1 lb. penne pasta, cooked al dente
Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil + more for tossing pasta
- 1/2 small red onion, sliced
- 8 oz. baby Bella mushrooms, sliced
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 pint grape tomatoes, halved
- 3.5 oz. jar capers, drained
- 4 cups fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup heavy cream, optional
- Kosher salt
- fresh cracked pepper
Garnish:
- 1/2 cup shaved Parmesan cheese, for serving
- fresh chopped parsley, for serving
Instructions
- Cook pasta: Cook pasta until al dente. Toss in olive oil.
- Sauté vegetables: Heat oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add onion and mushroom with salt and pepper. Cook for 3 minutes. Add garlic and Italian seasoning, cook for another minute.
- Add sauce ingredients: Stir in balsamic vinegar, tomatoes, capers, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 3 minutes.
- Add spinach and cream: Stir in spinach until wilted. Add heavy cream if desired.
- Combine and serve: Add pasta to the pan, toss to coat, and cook until warmed through. Season to taste, garnish with parsley and Parmesan, and serve.
Notes
- You can skip the heavy cream for a lighter version of this dish.
- Feel free to add protein like grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sauté, Simmer
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Pasta Fresca, Italian Pasta Recipe, Balsamic Pasta Dish
