Spring Pasta Recipes are the perfect way to celebrate the season’s bounty, bringing fresh and vibrant ingredients into every dish. As the weather warms up, we welcome a variety of seasonal produce like asparagus, peas, and fresh herbs, which elevate pasta dishes with their bright, natural flavors. Whether you’re in the mood for a light pesto, a creamy vegetable-packed pasta, or a refreshing pasta salad, spring offers endless possibilities. In this article, you’ll find easy, fresh, and creative pasta recipes that make the most of spring’s delicious offerings.
Spring Pasta Recipes
1. Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Description:
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a light yet flavorful dish that combines the zesty freshness of lemon with the rich taste of shrimp, all tossed in a garlicky, buttery sauce. This dish is perfect for spring, offering a delicate balance of citrus and savory flavors while remaining fresh and light. The shrimp adds a boost of protein, while the pasta provides a comforting base, making it a satisfying yet refreshing meal.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or your choice)
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Approximate values based on 4 servings
- Calories: 380
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Cholesterol: 185mg
This dish is a great source of lean protein from shrimp, healthy fats from olive oil and butter, and a nice amount of fiber from the pasta. It’s also a good source of vitamins, especially vitamin C from the lemon.
2. Spring Vegetable Pasta Primavera
Description:
Spring Vegetable Pasta Primavera is a vibrant, vegetable-packed pasta dish that celebrates the fresh flavors of the season. Featuring a mix of asparagus, peas, carrots, and other seasonal vegetables, this dish is light yet hearty, with a refreshing garlic and olive oil sauce. It’s perfect for showcasing the colorful bounty of spring while offering a satisfying and healthy meal. This pasta primavera is versatile and can be served with any pasta shape you prefer, making it an easy go-to for a spring dinner.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or your choice)
- 1 cup asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup carrots, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Approximate values based on 4 servings
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Cholesterol: 5mg
This dish is rich in vitamins, especially vitamins A and C from the vegetables. It also provides a healthy amount of fiber and plant-based protein from the vegetables and pasta. The olive oil and Parmesan cheese add flavor without making the dish overly rich, making it a perfect choice for a light yet filling spring meal.
3. Pesto Pasta with Fresh Basil and Pine Nuts
Description:
Pesto Pasta with Fresh Basil and Pine Nuts is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings the essence of spring right to your plate. The homemade pesto, made from vibrant fresh basil, aromatic garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil, coats the pasta with a rich, herby, and nutty flavor. The addition of toasted pine nuts provides a delightful crunch and depth to the dish, making it a refreshing and satisfying meal. This is a perfect dish for those who want to enjoy a quick, delicious, and light spring pasta.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, fusilli, or your choice)
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
- 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Approximate values based on 4 servings
- Calories: 400
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Cholesterol: 10mg
This dish is packed with healthy fats from olive oil and pine nuts, providing a good source of heart-healthy nutrients. Basil contributes antioxidants, while the Parmesan cheese offers protein and calcium. With the fresh, vibrant flavor of the pesto, it’s a great springtime meal that’s as nutritious as it is tasty.
4. Asparagus and Parmesan Fettuccine
Description:
Asparagus and Parmesan Fettuccine is a deliciously creamy pasta dish that celebrates the delicate, fresh flavors of spring. Tender asparagus is sautéed to perfection and combined with rich Parmesan cheese and a creamy sauce, making each bite full of savory goodness. This dish is perfect for those who want a light but satisfying meal that highlights the season’s fresh produce, and the fettuccine noodles offer a perfect base to absorb the creamy, cheesy sauce.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Approximate values based on 4 servings
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Cholesterol: 75mg
This dish offers a good source of protein from the Parmesan cheese, along with healthy fats from olive oil and heavy cream. The asparagus adds fiber and vitamins A and C, while the creamy sauce gives a rich flavor without being overwhelming. It’s a perfect choice for a comforting, spring-inspired meal.
5. Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Description:
Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Shells are a cozy and satisfying dish that combines creamy ricotta cheese with the fresh, earthy flavor of spinach. The large pasta shells are stuffed with a delicious filling, then baked in a light tomato sauce and topped with melted cheese for a comforting, flavorful meal. While rich in flavor, this dish remains light and fresh, making it a perfect choice for spring dinners when you want something filling yet bright.
Ingredients:
- 12 large pasta shells
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 1/2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional)
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Approximate values based on 4 servings
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Cholesterol: 70mg
These stuffed shells are a great source of protein from ricotta and mozzarella cheeses. The spinach adds a healthy dose of fiber and vitamins A and C. While slightly indulgent with the cheese and sauce, the balance of fresh spinach keeps it light and ideal for a spring meal. The dish also provides a solid amount of calcium from the cheeses.
6. Pea and Mint Pasta with Ricotta
Description:
Pea and Mint Pasta with Ricotta is a refreshing, light dish that pairs sweet peas with the aromatic flavor of fresh mint, making it a perfect choice for a spring meal. The creamy ricotta cheese adds richness to the pasta, while the peas provide a burst of natural sweetness and a pop of color. The fresh mint adds a cool, vibrant note that brightens up the entire dish, making it feel both indulgent and refreshing. It’s an easy-to-make, flavorful pasta that showcases the best of spring ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta (penne, spaghetti, or your choice)
- 1 1/2 cups fresh peas (or frozen peas, thawed)
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Approximate values based on 4 servings
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Cholesterol: 20mg
This dish is a great way to enjoy peas’ natural sweetness, providing fiber and vitamins A and C. The ricotta adds a creamy richness without being too heavy, and the mint offers a fresh, aromatic element to balance the dish.
7. Zucchini Noodles with Lemon and Garlic Sauce
Description:
Zucchini Noodles with Lemon and Garlic Sauce is a light, healthy, and refreshing pasta alternative that uses zucchini as a low-carb option. The zucchini noodles, or “zoodles,” are tossed in a simple, flavorful lemon and garlic sauce, which adds brightness and depth to the dish. This dish is not only a perfect choice for a light spring meal, but it’s also gluten-free and low in calories, making it a great way to enjoy all the fresh flavors of the season without the heaviness of traditional pasta.
Ingredients:
- 4 medium zucchinis, spiralized into noodles
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Approximate values based on 4 servings
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Cholesterol: 5mg
This dish is a great source of fiber from the zucchini, and the lemon and garlic provide a refreshing, aromatic kick. It’s a light option that won’t weigh you down, yet still delivers plenty of flavor.
8. Caprese Pasta Salad
Description:
Caprese Pasta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines the classic flavors of the Italian Caprese salad with pasta for a satisfying, light meal. Cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil are tossed with pasta and drizzled with a balsamic glaze, making it a perfect side dish or a quick, easy main for a spring lunch or dinner. The combination of fresh, juicy tomatoes and creamy mozzarella paired with aromatic basil and tangy balsamic creates a well-balanced, flavorful salad that’s perfect for warmer weather.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta (rotini, penne, or fusilli)
- 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp balsamic glaze (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Approximate values based on 4 servings
- Calories: 300
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Cholesterol: 25mg
This Caprese Pasta Salad is light but fulfilling, with the fresh mozzarella providing protein and calcium while the cherry tomatoes offer a healthy dose of vitamin C.
9. Spring Greens and Lemon Pasta
Description:
Spring Greens and Lemon Pasta is a light, bright, and nutritious dish that celebrates the vibrant flavors of fresh greens, including arugula, spinach, and peas, combined with a zesty lemon sauce. The pasta is tossed with a simple, refreshing lemon dressing that adds a tangy kick, while the spring greens provide a burst of color and nutrients. This dish is perfect for a quick, healthy, and satisfying meal that embraces the freshness of spring ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or your choice)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup arugula, chopped
- 1/2 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Approximate values based on 4 servings
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 6g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Cholesterol: 10mg
This dish is packed with fresh greens that provide vitamins A and C, as well as fiber. The lemon dressing brings a tangy zing while keeping the dish light.
10. Chicken and Broccoli Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Description:
Chicken and Broccoli Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Sauce is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings together tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and al dente pasta in a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. The sauce is rich but light, with the garlic providing a savory base and the Parmesan adding depth and richness. This dish combines protein, vegetables, and carbs in one easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for springtime dinners, offering both comfort and freshness.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or your choice)
- 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Approximate values based on 4 servings
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 5g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Cholesterol: 75mg
This dish is a great source of lean protein from the chicken and fiber from the broccoli. The garlic Parmesan sauce provides a rich, creamy base, while still feeling light due to the balance of flavors.
FAQ
What makes spring pasta recipes different from other pasta dishes?
Spring pasta recipes focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients like vegetables, herbs, and light sauces. These recipes embrace the vibrant flavors of spring, with lighter, brighter flavors such as lemon, peas, fresh herbs, and leafy greens, making them perfect for the warmer months.
Can I substitute the pasta in these recipes with gluten-free options?
Absolutely! You can easily swap regular pasta for gluten-free pasta in any of these recipes. Just make sure to choose a gluten-free pasta variety that suits your taste, such as rice, quinoa, or chickpea-based pasta.
How can I make these spring pasta recipes vegan?
To make these recipes vegan, substitute dairy ingredients like cheese and cream with plant-based alternatives. Use vegan ricotta, Parmesan, or a cashew-based cream, and swap any chicken or other animal products with plant-based protein options like tofu or tempeh.
Are these spring pasta recipes easy to prepare?
Yes! Most of the recipes are simple to prepare and require minimal cooking time. They are perfect for busy weeknights or weekend meals when you want to enjoy fresh, delicious dishes without spending hours in the kitchen.
I’m Priscilla Swahn, a registered dietitian with a master’s degree in nutritional sciences. With over a decade of experience in holistic nutrition, I specialize in creating delicious keto recipes to help you enjoy a healthy lifestyle. On iKetoMom, you’ll find a variety of recipes for every meal—hearty breakfasts, satisfying lunches, mouthwatering dinners, indulgent desserts, and refreshing drinks. My recipes make keto living easy and enjoyable for the whole family. Featured in EatingWell and MindBodyGreen, I also collaborate with health centers and corporate companies to share my expertise. Join me and discover the joy of keto cooking!