What is Pasta Primavera?

Pasta Primavera is a colorful Italian-American pasta dish featuring fresh vegetables and a light, creamy, or butter-based sauce.

Can I make a creamy Pasta Primavera Sauce?

Yes! Add heavy cream to the sautéed vegetables and stir in Parmesan cheese for a smooth, creamy texture.

Is this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely. This Pasta Primavera Sauce is naturally vegetarian but can be customized with protein such as chicken, shrimp, or tofu.

How long does it take to make?

This recipe is quick and can be ready in about 35 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.

Pasta Primavera Sauce – Easy, Creamy, and Flavorful Recipe 2026

Name: Pasta Primavera Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti); 1 tablespoon salt (for pasta water); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small onion, thinly sliced; 1 cup bell peppers, sliced (mix of red, yellow, green); 1 cup zucchini, sliced into half-moons; 1 cup carrots, thinly sliced; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; ½ cup frozen peas; ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and black pepper, to taste; ½ cup heavy cream (or ½ cup vegetable broth for lighter sauce); ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Description

A vibrant and flavorful pasta dish featuring fresh, seasonal vegetables tossed in a light, creamy, or buttery sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a springtime feast, this recipe is versatile and can be made vegetarian or with added protein.

Ingredients

Scale

🛒 Ingredients (for 4 servings):

For the Pasta:

12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
1 tablespoon salt (for pasta water)

For the Primavera Sauce:

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, thinly sliced
1 cup bell peppers, sliced (mix of red, yellow, green)
1 cup zucchini, sliced into half-moons
1 cup carrots, thinly sliced
1 cup broccoli florets
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cup frozen peas
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
½ cup heavy cream (for creamy sauce) or ½ cup vegetable broth (for lighter sauce)
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

📝 Instructions:

Step 1: Cook Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and onion; sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
Add carrots and broccoli; cook 3–4 minutes. Add zucchini, bell peppers, and peas; cook another 3–4 minutes. Stir in cherry tomatoes last.

Step 3: Make the Sauce
For creamy sauce: Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
For lighter version: Add vegetable broth instead.
Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly. If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency.
Stir in lemon juice and chopped parsley.

Step 5: Serve
Transfer to plates or a large serving bowl. Garnish with extra Parmesan and parsley.

Notes

Vegetable Variations: Add asparagus, mushrooms, or spinach depending on season.
Protein Boost: Include grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
Make Ahead: Prepare vegetables and sauce ahead; toss with freshly cooked pasta just before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
Category: Main Course / Pasta
Method: Sautéed / Creamy or Butter Sauce
Cuisine: Italian-American