If you love the taste of fresh, vibrant vegetables paired with a luscious, velvety sauce, then this Creamy Pasta Primavera Recipe is an absolute must-try. Every bite bursts with garden-fresh asparagus, peas, bell peppers, and zucchini, all lovingly enveloped in a rich cream and parmesan sauce, creating a dish that feels both indulgent and wholesome. It’s such a comforting, colorful meal that’s perfect for any day you want to treat yourself to something special yet effortlessly elegant.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, high-quality ingredients are the heart of this recipe. Each component plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture, from the sautéed vegetable base to the tender pasta and creamy sauce.
- DeLallo Soffritto Sautéed Vegetable Cooking Base: This mix of sautéed vegetables packed in oil gives the sauce its deep, savory foundation and helps infuse every bite with flavor.
- Asparagus (thin stems): Adds a tender-crisp bite with a subtle earthiness that brightens the dish.
- Frozen peas: Sweet bursts of freshness that bring lovely pops of color and texture.
- Bell pepper: Provides a gentle sweetness and crunch, balancing the creaminess of the sauce.
- Diced zucchini: Mild and delicate, zucchini rounds out the vegetable medley without overpowering.
- Garlic cloves (minced): Essential aromatic that gives the sauce a warm, savory depth.
- Roma tomato (chopped): Adds a touch of acidity and vibrant red color, lifting the creaminess perfectly.
- Fresh lemon juice: A bright, zesty note that cuts through richness, keeping every mouthful lively.
- Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that anchors the sauce with classic Italian herbs.
- Heavy/whipping cream: The star of the sauce, making it irresistibly creamy and smooth.
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty finish that melds everything together beautifully.
- Fresh basil leaves: For a fresh, herbaceous touch that enhances aroma and flavor.
- Delallo Pappardelle Egg Pasta: Broad ribbons that hold onto the sauce wonderfully, creating the perfect texture contrast.
- Salt & pepper: To season and balance all the flavors perfectly.
How to Make Creamy Pasta Primavera Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. This step is crucial because properly salted water seasons the pasta from the inside out, giving it a nice base flavor. Cook the Delallo Pappardelle Egg Pasta according to the package directions until al dente, so it still has a slight bite and won’t get mushy when combined with the sauce later.
Step 2: Prepare Your Fresh Ingredients
While the pasta cooks, take a moment to prep the vegetables and aromatics. Trim and chop the asparagus, slice the bell pepper, dice the zucchini, mince the garlic, and chop the roma tomato. Having everything ready before you start cooking the sauce will make the process smooth and efficient.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the DeLallo Soffritto base in a skillet over medium-high heat, ensuring you get both the oil and vegetables into the pan for maximum flavor. Add the asparagus, peas, bell pepper, zucchini, and garlic, stirring frequently for about 5 minutes. This allows the vegetables to become tender-crisp, keeping their structure and vibrant colors without losing their freshness. Once cooked, remove them from the skillet and set aside in a bowl.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, add the chopped tomato, fresh lemon juice, and Italian seasoning to the remaining oil and vegetable base. Pour in the heavy cream, then let the mixture bubble gently for about 3 minutes until it thickens slightly. This slow bubbling helps concentrate the flavors and gives the cream sauce a luscious body that will cling to the pasta.
Step 5: Combine Sauce, Vegetables, and Cheese
Turn the heat down to medium-low. Stir the freshly grated parmesan cheese and thinly sliced basil leaves into the sauce, allowing the cheese to melt smoothly and the basil to release its fragrant oils. Return the sautéed vegetables to the skillet and stir everything to warm through. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed – this step is vital for balancing the whole dish.
Step 6: Toss Pasta with the Sauce
Drain the cooked pappardelle, reserving a little pasta water if you want to loosen the sauce slightly. Add the pasta into the skillet and gently toss it with the sauce and vegetables until everything is thoroughly coated. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
How to Serve Creamy Pasta Primavera Recipe
Garnishes
To brighten this rich dish, sprinkle additional grated parmesan cheese right before serving, and don’t forget a few fresh basil leaves on top for a beautiful, fresh finish. A quick drizzle of good quality olive oil adds an extra silkiness and shine that feels both fancy and welcoming.
Side Dishes
This pasta stands beautifully on its own but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to complement the creamy richness. Garlic bread or a warm, crusty baguette also makes for a satisfying side, perfect for soaking up every last bit of that dreamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Creamy Pasta Primavera Recipe in wide, shallow bowls to showcase the colorful vegetables and glossy sauce. For dinner parties, individual portions garnished with edible flowers or microgreens can add an elegant touch. This dish also shines as a buffet option, where guests can customize with extra parmesan or fresh herbs.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After the meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen over time, though the pasta may soak up some sauce.
Freezing
Freezing Creamy Pasta Primavera Recipe is possible but not ideal because cream-based sauces can separate. If you must freeze, cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Gently reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water as needed to restore creaminess. Avoid microwaving at high power to keep the sauce smooth and the vegetables tender.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While pappardelle works wonderfully for its broad shape, you can substitute with fettuccine, linguine, or even penne—the key is choosing a pasta that holds onto the creamy sauce well.
Is there a vegetarian version of this Creamy Pasta Primavera Recipe?
This recipe is naturally vegetarian, featuring fresh vegetables and a rich cream sauce without any meat. Just be sure your parmesan cheese is vegetarian-friendly or use a suitable substitute.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap out the Delallo pappardelle for your favorite gluten-free pasta. The cooking times may vary, so follow package instructions for best results.
What is the role of lemon juice in the recipe?
Lemon juice adds a subtle brightness that cuts through the creaminess, balancing the richness and enhancing the freshness of the vegetables and herbs.
Can I add protein to this dish?
For a heartier meal, grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed tofu can be wonderful additions. Just incorporate them alongside the vegetables or toss in after the sauce is made.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Pasta Primavera Recipe has quickly become one of those comforting yet sophisticated dishes I love sharing with friends. It balances fresh veggies and a decadently smooth sauce so effortlessly that every meal feels like a little celebration. I encourage you to give it a try—the colors, aromas, and flavors will brighten up any dinner table and make your weeknight meals a true joy.
