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Pasta Primavera Recipe

Pasta Primavera

Indulge in the vibrant, fresh flavors of Pasta Primavera, a delightful dish that celebrates the bounty of seasonal vegetables. Featuring a light and refreshing lemon cream sauce, this pasta is perfect for spring and summer gatherings or any occasion when you crave a healthy meal. With its quick preparation time and customizable options, this recipe will impress family and friends while keeping dinner stress-free. Enjoy the burst of colors and tastes with every bite!

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 16 oz penne pasta
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 8 oz asparagus, cut into 1 ½-inch pieces
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1 ½-inch pieces
  • 2 cups small broccoli florets
  • 1 small zucchini, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 shallot, minced
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Dash crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 3 tablespoons lemon juice, divided
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
  • 1 ½ cups halved grape tomatoes
  • ¼ cup chopped basil

Instructions

  1. Cook the penne pasta in salted boiling water for about 11 minutes until al dente. Drain and return to pot.
  2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sauté asparagus, yellow bell pepper, and broccoli for 2–3 minutes until tender-crisp. Add zucchini and cook for another minute. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add shallot and garlic; cook until fragrant (about two minutes). Stir in lemon zest and broth; simmer until reduced by half (4–5 minutes). Mix in heavy cream and two tablespoons lemon juice.
  4. In the pot with pasta, stir in frozen peas and sautéed vegetables. Pour sauce over the mixture; add Parmesan cheese, remaining lemon juice, grape tomatoes, and basil. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  5. Serve warm garnished with parsley, extra Parmesan cheese, and crushed red pepper flakes.
  • Author: Jennifer
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 610mg
  • Fat: 23g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: Feel free to customize with your favorite seasonal vegetables or proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp. For a lighter sauce, reduce the heavy cream or use more vegetable broth.