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A delicious plate of Creamy Pasta Primavera

Creamy Pasta Primavera

A delightful, creamy pasta dish bursting with fresh spring vegetables and a rich Parmesan sauce. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 1 serving
Course: Main Dish, Pasta
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories: 695

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces medium pasta base that holds the sauce well, cooked al dente
  • 3 tablespoons butter adds richness for sautéing
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic builds savory aroma quickly
  • 1 cup sliced zucchini provides mild flavor and crunch
  • 1/2 cup asparagus, trimmed and cut into thirds adds spring freshness
  • 1/2 cup diced bell pepper (red, yellow, or orange) brings color and sweet crunch
  • 2/3 cup grape tomatoes or cherry tomatoes offers juicy bursts of acidity, halve if large
  • 1/2 cup petite peas sweet pop of green, use frozen if fresh aren't available
  • 1/2 cup snow peas tender, crisp addition, for a delicate texture
  • 1 cup broth base for simmering vegetables, use vegetable broth for vegetarian option
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream creates a silky Parmesan cream sauce; use plant-based cream for vegan
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch thickens sauce without flour, ensures a smooth consistency
  • 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese melts for umami depth; use vegetarian Parmesan if desired
  • 1 pinch Salt season to taste, essential for enhancing flavors
  • 1 pinch Pepper season to taste, freshly ground black pepper is best

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Large Skillet

Method
 

  1. Prepare all vegetables: slice 1 cup zucchini, trim and cut 1/2 cup asparagus into thirds, dice 1/2 cup bell pepper, and halve 2/3 cup tomatoes if large. Measure out 12 ounces of pasta.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water, and set aside. Do not rinse the pasta.
  3. While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Melt the 3 tablespoons of butter. Add the 1 teaspoon of minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the sliced zucchini, asparagus, and diced bell pepper, and cook for another 1 minute, maintaining medium heat to keep the vegetables tender-crisp.
  4. Pour in 1 cup of broth and bring the mixture to a brief simmer over medium-high heat. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables soften slightly. Stir in the 1 cup heavy whipping cream, 1/2 cup petite peas, 1/2 cup snow peas, and 2/3 cup tomatoes. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer gently for 2-3 minutes (around 180-200°F).
  5. In a small bowl, mix the 1 1/2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of broth or water to create a slurry. Whisk this slurry into the simmering sauce in the pan and cook for about 1 minute until the sauce thickens. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the 1/2 cup of shredded Parmesan cheese.
  6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce and toss to combine thoroughly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. Season the dish generously with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve immediately in bowls, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad.

Notes

Customize this dish by adding your favorite protein like chicken, shrimp, or pressed tofu, sautéed before the vegetables. For a vegan option, use plant-based cream and vegan Parmesan. Garnish with fresh herbs or extra Parmesan for serving. This dish is excellent paired with a side salad.