Pasta Primavera with Creamy Sauce has become a beloved staple in our household, a dish that beautifully marries the vibrancy of fresh vegetables with the comforting richness of a creamy sauce. This recipe not only delighted my family but also brought a burst of color and flavor to our dinner table. One evening, as the aroma of garlic and sautéed vegetables wafted through our kitchen, even the pickiest eaters in our family couldn’t resist digging in. The creamy sauce, with its subtle hint of garlic and parmesan, clung perfectly to the al dente pasta, creating a harmonious blend that left everyone asking for seconds. It’s a meal that not only satisfies the taste buds but also provides a comforting sense of homeliness, making it a frequent request for both casual weekday dinners and more formal gatherings.

Ingredients

To create this delightful Pasta Primavera with Creamy Sauce, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 12 ounces of penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup of broccoli florets
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

Creating Pasta Primavera with Creamy Sauce is a straightforward process that even novice cooks can master. Begin by cooking the penne pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until it reaches al dente perfection, typically about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving about 1 cup of the pasta water.

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, which should take about 1 minute. Be cautious not to let it burn. Add the broccoli florets, bell pepper slices, and zucchini slices to the skillet, stirring occasionally until they are tender-crisp. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Next, incorporate the cherry tomatoes, allowing them to cook for another 2 minutes until they begin to soften.

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Allow it to simmer gently while stirring continuously. Gradually add the grated parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a small amount of the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.

Season the sauce with salt and pepper to your liking. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it with the creamy vegetable sauce until well combined. Serve the Pasta Primavera hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves for an aromatic finish.

Nutrition Facts

This recipe serves four people. Each serving is approximately 600 calories, which makes it a hearty meal suitable for lunch or dinner. The nutritional content offers a balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, ensuring a satisfying and nutritious dish.

Preparation Time

The total preparation and cooking time for this Pasta Primavera with Creamy Sauce is about 30 minutes. This makes it an excellent choice for those busy weeknights when you want to prepare a wholesome meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

How to Serve

• Serve with a side of garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Pair with a crisp green salad to add freshness and crunch.
• Top with additional parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
• Accompany with a glass of white wine for a sophisticated dinner.
• Serve as a main course or a side dish for a larger spread.

Additional Tips

Here are some tips to enhance your Pasta Primavera experience:

• Use seasonal vegetables: Feel free to substitute or add any of your favorite seasonal vegetables to the dish.
• Experiment with pasta shapes: While penne is traditional, other pasta shapes like fusilli or farfalle work beautifully too.
• Add protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
• Make it spicy: For a kick, add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Prepare in advance: The vegetables can be chopped ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.

FAQ Section

Q: Can I use milk instead of heavy cream in the sauce?

A: Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with whole milk or even half-and-half. However, the sauce will be less rich and creamy.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

A: Absolutely! This recipe is entirely vegetarian. To make it vegan, replace the cream with a plant-based alternative and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan.

Q: Can I freeze Pasta Primavera with Creamy Sauce?

A: It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it. Ensure it’s completely cooled before storing in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore its creaminess.

Q: What can I do if the sauce is too thick?

A: If the sauce becomes too thick, simply add a bit of the reserved pasta water to thin it out to your desired consistency.

Q: How can I make this dish gluten-free?

A: Substitute regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta alternative. Ensure that other ingredients like parmesan and cream are also gluten-free.