12 Easy Spring Pasta Dishes Perfect For Weeknight Dinners

12 Easy Spring Pasta Dishes Perfect For Weeknight Dinners are exactly what you need to bring fresh, seasonal flavors to the table without spending hours in the kitchen. As the days get longer and the weather warms up, spring is the perfect time to lighten things up—with meals that are vibrant, comforting, and quick to make. And nothing hits the sweet spot between convenience and flavor quite like a good pasta dish.

This handpicked collection celebrates everything we love about spring cooking: crisp vegetables, bright herbs, creamy sauces, and just the right balance of hearty and refreshing. From lemony asparagus pasta to creamy pesto tortellini, these recipes are designed to come together fast—most in under 30 minutes—making them ideal for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without a lot of fuss.

Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal-prepping for the week, or just craving something fresh and comforting after a long day, these easy spring pasta dishes deliver. Each recipe is simple enough for a casual dinner but flavorful enough to feel like a seasonal treat.

So grab your favorite pot, boil some water, and get ready to dive into 12 spring-inspired pasta dishes that will brighten up your weeknight routine—one bite at a time.

Caprese Pasta with Mozzarella and Basil

Caprese Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the classic flavors of a Caprese salad with the comforting texture of pasta. It’s light, fresh, and perfect for those warm spring evenings. The creamy mozzarella, sweet cherry tomatoes, and fragrant basil come together to create a simple yet satisfying meal that can be whipped up in no time.

This recipe is not only easy to make, but it’s also a great way to enjoy seasonal ingredients. The balance of flavors and textures makes each bite enjoyable, and it’s a dish that everyone at the table will love.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces spaghetti or your choice of pasta
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
3. Combine Ingredients: Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften. Toss in the cooked pasta, mozzarella balls, and torn basil leaves.
4. Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything together until well combined, allowing the mozzarella to soften slightly from the heat of the pasta.
5. Serve: Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Pesto Primavera with Cherry Tomatoes

Pesto Primavera with Cherry Tomatoes is a delightful dish that celebrates the fresh flavors of spring. This recipe combines perfectly cooked pasta with vibrant cherry tomatoes and a zesty basil pesto, making it a light yet satisfying meal. It’s simple to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknight dinners.

The taste is a beautiful balance of herbaceous pesto and sweet, juicy tomatoes that burst with flavor. With minimal ingredients and quick cooking time, this dish is not only delicious but also an easy way to elevate your weeknight meals with seasonal produce.

Ingredients

• 8 oz spaghetti or your favorite pasta
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup basil pesto
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, pesto, and olive oil. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly.
3. Season: Add salt and pepper to taste, mixing well.
4. Serve: Transfer to serving dishes and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Enjoy warm!

Shrimp Scampi Linguine with Garlic Butter

Shrimp Scampi Linguine is a delightful dish that brings together tender shrimp and perfectly cooked linguine in a rich garlic butter sauce. The combination of flavors is light yet satisfying, making it a great choice for a weeknight dinner. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also packs a punch of flavor that will impress anyone at your table.

The key to a delicious shrimp scampi is in the garlic butter sauce, which coats the pasta beautifully and enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a dish that feels both cozy and elegant. Let’s dive into how to make this simple yet flavorful meal!

Ingredients

• 8 ounces linguine
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp, seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and cooked through.
3. Add Sauce Ingredients: Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes to meld the flavors.
4. Toss with Pasta: Add the cooked linguine to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is well coated in the sauce.
5. Garnish and Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley for an extra pop of flavor.

Creamy Spinach and Ricotta Fettuccine

Creamy Spinach and Ricotta Fettuccine is a delightful pasta dish that perfectly balances rich flavors with fresh ingredients. The creamy ricotta sauce pairs beautifully with sautéed spinach, creating a comforting meal that feels both indulgent and light. It’s simple to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknight dinners.

This dish not only delivers on flavor but also on nutrition, as spinach adds a burst of color and essential vitamins. The combination of textures, with the smooth sauce and tender pasta, makes each bite satisfying. Plus, you can have it on the table in under 30 minutes!

Ingredients

• 8 oz fettuccine
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Pine nuts for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Fettuccine: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Spinach: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Make the Sauce: Lower the heat and stir in the ricotta cheese and Parmesan cheese. Mix until well combined, creating a creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine: Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet and toss until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. If needed, add a splash of pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.
5. Serve: Plate the pasta, garnishing with pine nuts if desired, and enjoy your creamy spinach and ricotta fettuccine!

Zucchini Noodles with Cherry Tomatoes and Feta

Looking for a light and refreshing weeknight dinner? Zucchini noodles with cherry tomatoes and feta are a delightful option that combines fresh flavors and a satisfying texture. This dish is not only healthy but also quick to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy evenings.

The sweet, juicy cherry tomatoes blend beautifully with the creamy feta, while the zucchini noodles provide a wonderful crunch. It’s a simple recipe that’s bursting with flavor and can be on your table in no time!

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchinis
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil, for garnish

Instructions

1. Spiralize the zucchini using a spiralizer or a vegetable peeler to create noodles.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the zucchini noodles to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.
4. Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften.
5. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper. Top with crumbled feta cheese and fresh basil before serving.

Garlic Lemon Chicken Pasta

Garlic Lemon Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that’s both light and satisfying, making it a perfect choice for spring weeknight dinners. This recipe combines tender chicken with a zesty lemon and garlic sauce that perfectly coats the pasta. The fresh flavors come together effortlessly, making it a breeze to whip up after a long day.

Not only is this dish tasty, but it also takes minimal prep time, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The comforting combination of garlic, lemon, and chicken creates a harmonious flavor profile that will please everyone at the table.

Ingredients

• 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti or fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the sliced chicken with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir to combine and let simmer for 2-3 minutes.
4. Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
5. Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Lemon Asparagus Pasta with Parmesan

Lemon Asparagus Pasta is a delightful dish that brings the freshness of spring to your dinner table. With vibrant asparagus and a zesty lemon sauce, this recipe is both light and flavorful, making it an excellent choice for weeknight meals.

This pasta is simple to prepare and takes only about 20 minutes from start to finish. The bright, citrusy notes complement the tender asparagus perfectly, while the Parmesan adds a creamy, savory touch. It’s a dish that feels sophisticated yet is incredibly easy to whip up on a busy evening!

Ingredients

• 8 ounces spaghetti or your favorite pasta
• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions. During the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the asparagus pieces to the pot. Drain both the pasta and asparagus and set aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic: In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add Lemon and Cheese: Return the pasta and asparagus to the pot. Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Mix well to combine and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve: Divide the pasta among plates, sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan, and garnish with fresh herbs. Enjoy your bright, delicious Lemon Asparagus Pasta!

Pea and Mint Pasta Salad

When spring rolls around, there’s nothing quite like a light and refreshing pasta dish to celebrate the season. This Pea and Mint Pasta Salad is an easy and delightful recipe that combines sweet peas with the fresh taste of mint, creating a vibrant dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners.

The flavors are bright and uplifting, making each bite a pleasant experience. Plus, it’s simple to prepare—perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without the fuss. Just toss everything together, and you have a lovely meal ready to enjoy!

Ingredients

• 8 oz spaghetti or your favorite pasta
• 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Add peas during the last 2 minutes of cooking. Drain and rinse under cold water.
2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta and peas. Add the chopped mint, crumbled feta, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Toss and Serve: Gently toss everything together until well combined. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Spinach and Artichoke Penne

If you’re looking for a quick and tasty dinner, Spinach and Artichoke Penne is a delightful choice. This dish combines the earthy flavors of spinach and the tangy notes of artichokes, creating a harmonious blend that’s both comforting and satisfying. It’s simple to prepare and brings the taste of a classic dip right to your pasta bowl!

Perfect for weeknight dinners, this recipe can be ready in under 30 minutes, making it a go-to option for busy evenings. The creamy sauce, paired with tender penne pasta, is sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
• 1 cup cream cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the penne according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add Spinach and Artichokes: Stir in the chopped artichokes and fresh spinach. Cook until the spinach wilts, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Create the Creamy Mixture: Lower the heat and mix in the cream cheese, sour cream, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until everything is combined and creamy.
5. Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked penne to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
6. Serve: Plate the pasta and sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese before serving.

Roasted Vegetable and Goat Cheese Farfalle

Roasted Vegetable and Goat Cheese Farfalle is a delightful dish that brings together the freshness of spring vegetables and the creamy tang of goat cheese. This pasta is not only vibrant in color but also packed with flavors that truly celebrate the season. With its simple preparation, it’s an excellent choice for a busy weeknight dinner.

The combination of roasted cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and bell peppers adds a sweet and smoky depth, while the goat cheese provides a rich, creamy contrast. This dish is a breeze to whip up, making it perfect for those evenings when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 12 oz farfalle pasta
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. On a baking sheet, toss the cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and bell pepper with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Spread them in a single layer.
3. Roast the vegetables for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly caramelized.
4. Meanwhile, cook the farfalle pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
5. Combine the roasted vegetables with the pasta in a large bowl. Gently fold in the crumbled goat cheese and chopped parsley.
6. Serve warm, drizzled with a little extra olive oil if desired.

Wild Mushroom and Thyme Tagliatelle

This Wild Mushroom and Thyme Tagliatelle is a delightful dish that captures the essence of spring with its earthy flavors and fragrant herbs. The combination of fresh mushrooms and aromatic thyme creates a comforting yet sophisticated pasta dish that can be whipped up in no time.

With a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner. The al dente tagliatelle serves as a perfect base, allowing the rich, savory mushroom sauce to shine. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or impressing guests, this dish strikes the right balance between ease and elegance.

Ingredients

• 8 oz tagliatelle pasta
• 2 cups mixed wild mushrooms, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1/4 cup vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the tagliatelle according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Mushrooms: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and garlic, cooking until the mushrooms are tender and golden, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add Flavor: Stir in the fresh thyme and vegetable broth, allowing the mixture to simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Combine: Add the cooked tagliatelle to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta in the mushroom sauce. Cook for an additional minute to heat through.
5. Serve: Plate the pasta and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving. Enjoy!

Tomato Basil Spaghetti with Olive Oil

This Tomato Basil Spaghetti with Olive Oil is a delightful dish that brings a burst of fresh flavors to your weeknight dinner table. With ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and high-quality olive oil, this recipe is all about simplicity and taste.

The dish is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy evenings. Just cook the spaghetti, mix in the ingredients, and you’re ready to enjoy a light and flavorful meal that celebrates the essence of spring.

Ingredients

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions

1. Cook the Spaghetti: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Add the Tomatoes: Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for about 3-4 minutes, just until they start to soften. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Combine: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and gently toss to combine with the tomato mixture. Stir in the chopped basil.
5. Serve: Plate the spaghetti and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving. Enjoy your meal!

Final Thoughts

Spring is a season of renewal, and these easy pasta dishes are a delicious way to refresh your dinner routine. With ingredients that highlight the best of the season—like peas, asparagus, lemon, and fresh herbs—you can enjoy meals that feel light yet comforting, quick yet satisfying.

These 12 spring pasta recipes prove that weeknight cooking doesn’t have to be boring or stressful. With just a few fresh ingredients and a little time, you can create meals that your whole family will love. Keep these recipes handy—you’ll want to come back to them again and again as the season goes on. Happy cooking!