One-Pot Creamy Pasta Primavera (Printable version)

A vibrant and creamy pasta dish featuring fresh vegetables cooked together in one pot for a quick, satisfying meal.

# What You'll Need:

→ Pasta

01 - 12 oz penne or fusilli pasta

→ Vegetables

02 - 1 medium zucchini, sliced
03 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
04 - 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
05 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
06 - 1 cup snap peas, trimmed and halved
07 - 1 medium carrot, sliced thin
08 - 2 cloves garlic, minced

→ Sauce

09 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
10 - 3 cups vegetable broth
11 - 1 cup heavy cream
12 - 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
13 - 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
14 - Salt and black pepper to taste

→ Garnish

15 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
16 - Extra grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

# Directions:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add garlic, zucchini, bell peppers, carrot, and snap peas. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened.
02 - Add pasta, cherry tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Stir to combine. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
03 - Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian herbs. Simmer uncovered for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and coats the pasta and vegetables.
04 - Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Remove from heat and stir in fresh basil.
05 - Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and basil if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • One-pot convenience means minimal cleanup and maximum flavor
  • Ready in just 35 minutes from start to finish
  • Packed with colorful, nutrient-rich vegetables
  • Creamy Parmesan sauce coats every bite perfectly
  • Easily adaptable for vegan or gluten-free diets
  • Family-friendly and satisfying for weeknight dinners
02 -
  • Don't skip the initial sauté—it develops flavor and ensures vegetables maintain some texture
  • Reserve a cup of pasta cooking liquid before draining in case you need to loosen the sauce
  • Add the Parmesan off high heat to prevent clumping
  • Fresh basil should be stirred in at the very end to preserve its vibrant color and flavor
  • This dish is best served immediately while the sauce is at its creamiest
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