| Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 20 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 350 | 16g | 3g | 45g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 4g | 3g | 12g | 0.5g |
Have you ever tried a recipe that immediately transports you to a serene countryside with blooming fields of lavender and sun-drenched produce? The Herbes De Provence (French Herb blend including Lavender) Pasta Recipe does just that for me. Imagine the harmonious combination of fragrant herbs, aromatic garlic, and a medley of vibrant vegetables—it’s a culinary experience that’s both comforting and exhilarating.
The Beauty of Fusion
Being from Atlanta and having Nigerian parents, I’ve always been fascinated by how flavors from different regions can come together to create something extraordinary. The Herbes De Provence (French Herb blend including Lavender) Pasta Recipe is the epitome of such fusion. While it draws its herbal notes from the Provence region in France, the recipe’s adaptability reminds me of the Afro-Southern fusion that is close to my heart. The balance of robust vegetables and tasteful herbs beautifully bridges the gap between elegant French cuisine and hearty, home-style cooking.
Health Benefits of Fresh Ingredients
One of the reasons I love this recipe so much is its health benefits. The pasta is loaded with fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes, zucchinis, and bell peppers, which are rich in essential vitamins and antioxidants. Herbs such as basil and parsley are not just flavorful but also excellent sources of vitamins A, C, and K. These components come together to make a dish that’s not only delicious but also nourishing.
Perfect Pairings
This pasta is versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Consider serving it alongside a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette for a balanced meal. Alternatively, it could complement a grilled chicken breast or a piece of pan-seared fish, making it perfect for both casual weeknight dinners and more sophisticated gatherings.
For those who find joy in culinary creativity, the Herbes De Provence (French Herb blend including Lavender) Pasta Recipe could serve as a base for various adaptations. Don’t hesitate to experiment with ingredients you already have in your pantry or garden. Maybe add some grilled shrimp or a handful of toasted pine nuts. The possibilities are endless.
And if you’re curious about more recipes that incorporate flavorful herb blends, be sure to check out our Herbes de Provence recipes at Serious Eats. These dishes share the same spirit of using fresh and aromatic ingredients to elevate everyday meals.
Ultimately, this pasta recipe isn’t just about the components listed; it’s about the experience it offers. When a dish is this soulful and flavorful, it becomes more than just food. It becomes a memory, a story, and an enduring joy. I hope you love it as much as I do.
What You’ll Need
- 12 oz pasta (preferably fettuccine or linguine)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Herbes de Provence
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup zucchini, thinly sliced
- 1 cup yellow squash, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Method
Step One
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water, and set aside.
Step Two
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Step Three
Add the Herbes de Provence to the skillet and stir to combine. Then, add the cherry tomatoes, zucchini, yellow squash, and bell peppers. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Step Four
Season the vegetables with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes, if using. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until the pasta is well-coated with the sauce.
Step Five
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the fresh basil and parsley. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and toss to combine. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and black pepper if needed.
Step Six
Serve the Herbes de Provence Pasta hot, garnishing with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy!
