Pasta Primavera with Miso Dressing

Pasta Primavera with Miso Dressing Recipe - Vegetarian Italian Dish

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Pasta Primavera with Miso Dressing is a delicious and colorful dish that combines the flavors of fresh vegetables with a savory miso dressing. This recipe is perfect for a light and healthy meal that is full of flavor.

History

Pasta Primavera is a classic Italian dish that was popularized in the United States in the 1970s. It typically consists of pasta and a variety of fresh vegetables, making it a perfect dish for springtime when vegetables are in season. The addition of a miso dressing adds a unique twist to this traditional recipe.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) cooked pasta, such as fusilli, penne or shells
1 medium red bell pepper, julienned
1 medium green bell pepper, julienned
1 small red onion, diced
1 medium zucchini, diced and blanched
2 cups broccoli florets, blanched

Miso dressing

1 to 2 tbsp vegetable oil
8 scallions (white and light green parts), thinly sliced
2 medium cloves garlic, minced
0.25 cup mellow miso
1 to 1.25 cups vegetable broth, heated
0.25 cup chopped fresh parsley
0.25 tsp red pepper flakes

How to prepare

In a large bowl, combine pasta, bell peppers, onion, zucchini, and broccoli.
To make the dressing, heat oil over medium heat in a medium skillet.
Add scallions and garlic, and cook, stirring often, until softened, about 1 minute.
Stir in miso.
Gradually stir in broth.
Once miso and broth are well blended, stir in parsley and red pepper flakes.
Pour the miso dressing over the pasta mixture and serve.

Variations

Add grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.
Use different types of pasta such as whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.
Experiment with different vegetables such as mushrooms, spinach, or artichokes.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to blanch the vegetables before adding them to the pasta to ensure they are cooked to perfection.

- Adjust the amount of miso in the dressing to suit your taste preferences.

- Feel free to add other vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, snap peas, or asparagus to customize this dish to your liking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Pasta Primavera with Miso Dressing as a main dish for a light and healthy meal. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Blanching the vegetables helps to retain their vibrant colors and crisp texture.

- Gradually stirring in the miso and broth ensures a smooth and creamy dressing.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use any type of pasta you prefer, such as spaghetti or fettuccine.

- Substitute other vegetables based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the miso dressing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.

- Cook the pasta and blanch the vegetables in advance to save time when assembling the dish.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Pasta Primavera with fresh parsley or chopped scallions for a pop of color. - Serve the dish in individual bowls or on a large platter for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Pasta Primavera with a crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.

- Serve with a side of crusty bread and olive oil for dipping.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

250

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 45g

- Dietary Fiber: 6g

- Sugars: 5g

Fats

- Total Fat: 5g

- Saturated Fat: 1g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 10g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 20% DV

- Vitamin C: 120% DV

- Calcium: 6% DV

- Iron: 10% DV

Alergens

Contains soy (miso)

Summary

This Pasta Primavera with Miso Dressing is a nutritious dish that is rich in vitamins and minerals. It is a great source of carbohydrates, fiber, and protein, making it a well-rounded meal option.

Summary

Pasta Primavera with Miso Dressing is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light and healthy meal. With a colorful array of fresh vegetables and a savory miso dressing, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your household. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately captivated. It was a warm summer day and I had decided to take a stroll through the farmer's market in search of fresh ingredients for my next culinary adventure. As I meandered through the stalls filled with an array of colorful fruits and vegetables, my eyes landed on a beautiful display of vibrant vegetables that seemed to be calling out to me.

I approached the stand and struck up a conversation with the farmer, who told me that the vegetables were all locally grown and harvested that morning. As I picked up a plump tomato and inhaled its sweet aroma, the farmer handed me a small card with a recipe for Pasta Primavera with Miso Dressing written on it. He explained that the recipe was a family favorite and he was happy to share it with me.

Excited by the prospect of trying something new, I quickly gathered up the ingredients and headed back to my kitchen. As I read through the recipe, I realized that it was a perfect combination of fresh vegetables and savory miso dressing, a unique twist on a classic pasta dish. I knew I had to give it a try.

I began by boiling a pot of water and cooking the pasta until it was al dente. In the meantime, I chopped up an assortment of vegetables – bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and fresh herbs – and sautéed them in a pan with olive oil until they were tender and fragrant.

Next, I prepared the miso dressing by whisking together miso paste, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and a touch of honey. The dressing was a beautiful shade of golden brown, with a rich umami flavor that I knew would complement the vegetables perfectly.

Once the pasta was cooked and drained, I tossed it with the sautéed vegetables and poured the miso dressing over the top. The dish was a burst of colors and flavors, with the sweet tomatoes and the tangy miso dressing creating a harmonious balance on my taste buds.

I took a bite and was instantly transported to a sunny garden filled with blooming flowers and chirping birds. The Pasta Primavera with Miso Dressing was a celebration of summer in a bowl, a symphony of fresh ingredients that danced together in perfect harmony.

As I savored each bite, I thought about the farmer who had shared the recipe with me and how grateful I was for his generosity. I realized that this dish was not just a meal, but a gift – a reminder of the beauty and joy that can be found in simple, homemade food.

Since that day, Pasta Primavera with Miso Dressing has become a staple in my kitchen. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, who have all fallen in love with its unique flavors and vibrant colors. It is a dish that brings people together, a symbol of the joy and connection that can be found in sharing a delicious meal with loved ones.

As I sit here, reminiscing about that fateful day at the farmer's market, I am filled with gratitude for the wonderful experiences and memories that cooking has brought into my life. And as I take another bite of the Pasta Primavera with Miso Dressing, I am reminded once again of the power of food to nourish the body, mind, and soul. And for that, I am truly thankful.