Name: Pasta Fresca Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb. penne pasta, cooked al dente; 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, to taste; Fresh cracked pepper, to taste; 1/2 cup shaved Parmesan cheese; Fresh chopped parsley

Print Recipe· 4.1 from 11 reviews

If you have ever dreamed of capturing the freshest, most vibrant flavors of Italy in your own kitchen, this Pasta Fresca Recipe is your dream come true. With tender penne pasta enveloped in a luscious blend of balsamic-sautéed vegetables, fragrant garlic, and fresh spinach, every bite bursts with layers of savory goodness and just the right hint of creaminess. The simple ingredients combine effortlessly to create a dish that feels both homey and restaurant-quality, making it a heartfelt favorite to share with friends and family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows nine white bowls and one black container arranged on a white marbled surface, each filled with different fresh ingredients. Starting from the top left, there is a bowl of thinly sliced purple onion that forms neat curved layers; to its right, a bowl with chopped garlic and green herbs on top in two distinct halves. Next is a small bowl of golden-yellow olive oil. Below these, there's a white bowl filled with large, uneven light yellow cheese shavings. To its left, a black container holds evenly sliced white and brown mushrooms stacked loosely. Next to it is a small bowl of dark green capers. Below, a bowl brimming with bright red cherry tomatoes cut in halves with smooth shiny textures is shown. To the left, a large white bowl contains penne pasta in pale yellow tubes layered tightly, and next to it is a same-sized white bowl filled with roughly chopped deep green spinach leaves. Lastly, at the bottom right, a clear measuring cup holds a dark red liquid, likely wine. All bowls and container are placed close together with a clean, fresh appearance, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting started with this Pasta Fresca Recipe is wonderfully straightforward because it relies on simple, wholesome ingredients you probably already have in your pantry and fridge. Each ingredient plays a crucial role: from the umami-packed mushrooms to the tangy burst of balsamic vinegar, every element builds a symphony of flavors and textures.

1 lb. penne pasta: Cooked al dente, it provides the perfect bite and texture for this dish.
2 tablespoons olive oil (+ more for tossing pasta): Adds richness and helps keep the pasta silky not sticky.
1/2 small red onion, sliced: Offers subtle sweetness and crunch when sautéed.
8 oz. baby Bella mushrooms, sliced: Bring a deep, meaty earthiness that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
6 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the entire dish with aromatic warmth.
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: A classic blend of herbs that lifts and brightens the flavors.
1/2 cup balsamic vinegar: Adds a tangy, slightly sweet complexity that balances the sautéed veggies.
1 pint grape tomatoes, halved: Bursting with juiciness and vibrant color.
3.5 oz. jar capers, drained: Contribute a salty, briny pop that makes this recipe special.
4 cups fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped: Wilted into the dish, it adds freshness and a lovely green hue.
1/4 cup heavy cream (optional): For those who love a touch of creaminess to smooth out all the robust flavors.
Kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing all tastes into perfect harmony.
1/2 cup shaved Parmesan cheese, for serving: To crown the pasta with nutty, savory decadence.
Fresh chopped parsley, for serving: Adds a burst of color and fresh herbaceous notes.

How to Make Pasta Fresca Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling your penne pasta until it reaches al dente — firm to the bite but cooked through. Drain it and toss with a little olive oil to keep the noodles from sticking together while you prepare the rest of the dish. Cooking the pasta just right is key to the overall texture and enjoyment of this Pasta Fresca Recipe.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Mushrooms

Heat olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat and add the sliced red onion and mushrooms. Season with a few generous pinches of kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper. Stir occasionally as the vegetables soften and release their beautiful flavors, about 3 minutes. This forms the delicious base that will make your Pasta Fresca Recipe so irresistible.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Italian Seasoning

Once the mushrooms and onions have softened, toss in the minced garlic and sprinkle the Italian seasoning. Keep stirring frequently for about one minute until fragrant. This step infuses the vegetables with the aromatic heartbeat of the dish, setting the stage for the bold flavors to come.

Step 4: Incorporate Balsamic Vinegar, Tomatoes, and Capers

Add in the balsamic vinegar, halved grape tomatoes, and drained capers. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Lower the heat to medium-low and let it cook for about 3 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully. The balsamic adds a sweet tanginess that perfectly complements the bright tomatoes and salty capers.

Step 5: Wilt the Spinach and Add Cream

Now it’s time for the fresh baby spinach. Stir it into the pan and let it wilt down. If you want a slightly creamier version of this Pasta Fresca Recipe, stir in the heavy cream now. The cream balances the acidity and brings everything to a luscious finish that’s utterly comforting.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add your cooked pasta directly into the sauté pan. Toss gently to coat each piece of penne with the rich, vegetable-filled sauce. Let it cook together for a few minutes until it’s warmed through and you can taste how all those vibrant flavors have come together. Season to taste with salt and pepper, because seasoning is everything in nailing this Pasta Fresca Recipe.

How to Serve Pasta Fresca Recipe

A white round pan on a white marbled surface holds a mix of ingredients divided in three parts: cooked brown mushrooms with soft texture and slight shine spread mostly on the right side, bright red halved cherry tomatoes piled in the center and left side, and a small mound of dark green lentils resting near the center of the pan on top of the mushrooms. The mixture appears to be cooking in a dark sauce that pools slightly around the edges of the pan, with bits of sliced red onion visible among the mushrooms photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate this dish to restaurant-worthy status, top it with freshly shaved Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley. These simple garnishes add a burst of salty richness and a pop of green color that makes the plate look as good as it tastes.

Side Dishes

This pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed simply in lemon vinaigrette or a fresh baguette to soak up any leftover sauce. Light, fresh sides contrast wonderfully with the comforting heartiness of this Pasta Fresca Recipe to round out the meal perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving the pasta inside hollowed-out grilled tomatoes or as a bed beneath seared chicken breasts or sautéed shrimp. Even serving it in individual mason jars makes it an Instagram-ready dish for parties and gatherings. The vibrant colors and textures of this Pasta Fresca Recipe invite you to get creative.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pasta will keep nicely for up to 3 days, maintaining its flavors though it may soften slightly. Re-season with a splash of olive oil or a pinch of salt if needed before reheating.

Freezing

If you want to prep in advance, this Pasta Fresca Recipe freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers after cooking and cool completely. It stays good for up to 2 months. Just remember to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove or microwave.

Reheating

To bring your leftovers back to life, warm the pasta slowly over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of water, broth, or olive oil during reheating helps restore the sauce’s creamy texture. Be gentle so the spinach and tomatoes don’t become mushy, preserving the dish’s fresh feel.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this Pasta Fresca Recipe?

Absolutely! While penne works perfectly here for its sturdy shape, you can easily substitute with fusilli, rigatoni, or farfalle depending on your preference. Just be sure to cook the pasta al dente for the best texture.

Is it necessary to add heavy cream?

The heavy cream is optional and adds a lovely richness, but the recipe shines just as well without it if you prefer a lighter, brighter pasta fresca experience.

Can this dish be made vegan?

Yes, to make a vegan version, simply omit the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, or substitute them with plant-based alternatives. The flavorful veggies, capers, and balsamic vinegar provide plenty of umami on their own.

How can I make the recipe spicier?

If you like a little heat, add red pepper flakes along with the Italian seasoning or toss some sliced fresh chili peppers in with the garlic when cooking. It adds a nice kick that complements the tangy balsamic notes.

What wine pairs well with Pasta Fresca Recipe?

A crisp, lightly acidic white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc is a perfect match, cutting through the richness and enhancing the bright flavors of the dish.

Final Thoughts

This Pasta Fresca Recipe is truly a gem to keep in your culinary repertoire. Its vibrant, fresh flavors combined with the comfort of pasta create a dish that comforts and excites at the same time. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to become one of your beloved go-tos. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love all over again with fresh, simple Italian cooking!