Pasta Primavera with Pesto (Easy + Instant Pot)

Ingredients

Exact ingredients and measurements are listed in the recipe card below. Here is what you need 

• Pasta - I am using penne pasta. You can use any variety of pasta
• Pesto Sauce -  Pesto sauce is a fresh, herb-based sauce made by blending basil, garlic, olive oil, Parmesan cheese, and nuts into a smooth, flavorful paste.
• Vegetables - I love using mushrooms for that perfect meaty umami, broccoli florets  and baby spinach for superfood quality nutrients and freshness. Feel free to swap for your favorites.
• Garnishes - Fresh chopped basil, salt , ground black pepper and red chili flakes.

Pro Tip:
Store-bought pesto works, but homemade gives freshest taste. Try my quick and easy Pesto Without Pine Nuts Recipe .

How to Make Pasta Primavera with Pesto

Stovetop Method (Classic Approach)

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Sauté garlic and mushrooms first until browned.
3. Add broccoli, and baby spinach . Cook until tender-crisp.
4. Toss in cooked pasta and pesto.
5. Add reserved pasta water gradually to loosen the sauce.
6. Finish with freshly ground black pepper, basil strips, Parmesan, and lemon juice.

Instant Pot Pasta Primavera with Pesto (Effortless Method)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Start the Instant Pot on SAUTE mode and add the oil. Once oil is heated, add mushrooms, broccoli and garlic. Let them cook for 3-5 minutes. Once mushrooms have browned, add baby spinach and mix well. Cancel SAUTE. Remove cooked vegetables and set them aside.
2. Add pasta, 2½ cups water, and a pinch of salt to the Instant Pot.
3. Seal and cook on HIGH pressure for 4 minutes.
4. Perform a quick release.
5. Stir in pesto, olive oil, and earlier cooked vegetables.
6. Let sit for 2–3 minutes to thicken before serving. Garnish and serve!

This method works because the pasta absorbs flavor as it cooks, eliminating the need for multiple pots.

Pro Tip: Always add delicate vegetables after pressure cooking to maintain texture and color.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

I love to pair it with Air Fryer Garlic Toast for cafe style meal.

When reheating:

• Add a splash of water or broth
• Stir gently over low heat

Pro Tip: Stir in a small amount of fresh pesto after reheating to revive flavor.

Our Favorite Meatless Pasta Recipes

• Lemon Basil Pasta
• Creamy Mushroom Pasta
• Makhani Masala Pasta
• Blushing Beets Pesto Pasta
• Gnocchi Sheet Pan Dinner
• Greek Fresh Pasta Salad
• Easy Stuffed Pasta Shells
• Italian Summer Pasta Salad

What is Pasta Primavera?

Pasta Primavera is a light pasta dish made with fresh, sautéed vegetables tossed in a simple sauce like olive oil, garlic, or cream. Despite its Italian name, it’s an Italian-American recipe known for highlighting colorful, seasonal vegetables.