Creamy Pasta Primavera Clara quick dinners

Creamy Pasta Primavera is a vibrant and satisfying dish that combines a medley of fresh vegetables with tender pasta, all tossed in a luscious, creamy Parmesan sauce. It’s the perfect way to enjoy seasonal produce while indulging in a comforting, restaurant-worthy meal at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with colorful, fresh vegetables
• Rich, creamy sauce that coats every bite
• Versatile and customizable to your favorite ingredients
• Quick and easy—ready in about 30 minutes
• Perfect as a vegetarian main dish or side

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
• Olive oil
• Butter
• Garlic, minced
• Shallot or onion, finely chopped
• Carrots, julienned or thinly sliced
• Bell peppers, sliced
• Broccoli florets
• Asparagus, cut into 2-inch pieces
• Cherry tomatoes, halved
• Frozen peas
• Heavy cream
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
• Salt and black pepper

Directions

1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Sauté garlic and shallot until fragrant and soft.
3. Add carrots, bell peppers, broccoli, and asparagus. Cook until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 57 minutes.
4. Stir in cherry tomatoes and peas, and cook for 2 more minutes.
5. Reduce heat and pour in the heavy cream. Simmer for 34 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
7. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed.
8. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve immediately with extra Parmesan.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for protein
• Use zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for additional veggies
• Stir in lemon zest or red pepper flakes for extra flavor
• Swap heavy cream for half-and-half for a lighter sauce
• Use gluten-free pasta if needed

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
• Reheat: Gently reheat on the stove with a splash of milk or cream, or microwave in short intervals
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the creamy sauce may separate

FAQs

What type of pasta works best for primavera?

Short pasta like penne or rotini works well, but fettuccine or spaghetti are also great options.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. Half-and-half is a good compromise.

Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, just ensure your Parmesan is vegetarian-certified.

Can I make it ahead of time?

It’s best fresh, but you can prep the vegetables and sauce in advance and combine with pasta before serving.

What vegetables are best?

Asparagus, broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, and cherry tomatoes are traditional, but feel free to use what’s in season.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Simmer a bit longer or add a small amount of flour or cornstarch slurry.

Can I add protein?

Absolutely—chicken, shrimp, sausage, or chickpeas work well.

What’s the best cheese for the sauce?

Freshly grated Parmesan melts best and offers great flavor.

Is it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and confirm all ingredients are gluten-free.

What goes well with Pasta Primavera?

A green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables are great sides.

Conclusion

Creamy Pasta Primavera is a colorful, flavorful, and nourishing dish that’s as satisfying as it is easy to make. Whether you stick to the classic veggie blend or customize it with your favorites, this creamy pasta is a surefire way to bring fresh ingredients and comfort to your dinner table.

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