Pasta Primavera

How to Make Pasta Primavera

Tap a step to highlight it, or turn on Cook Mode for large type and step-by-step focus.

1. Bring a large pan of well-salted water to the boil and cook the pasta for 2 minutes less than the packet instructions.

   Mark done Start 2 min timer

2. Add the asparagus and broccoli to the pasta pan and cook for 2 minutes more. Add the peas for the last 30 seconds.

   Mark done Start 2 min timer

3. Scoop out a mugful of the pasta water, then drain everything into a colander.

   Mark done

4. While the pasta cooks, heat the oil in a large, deep frying pan over medium heat. Add the garlic and courgette and cook for 4 minutes until the courgette is just softening. Add the tomatoes and cook for 2 minutes.

   Mark done Start 4 min timer

5. Pour in the cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 2 minutes, then stir in the Parmesan, lemon zest, salt and pepper.

   Mark done Start 2 min timer

6. Add the drained pasta and vegetables to the pan with 100 ml of the reserved pasta water and toss over low heat for 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce coats the pasta and turns glossy, adding more water if it looks tight.

   Mark done Start 1 min timer

7. Stir in the basil, taste for seasoning and serve with extra Parmesan.

   Mark done

Tips for Making Pasta Primavera

• Save the pasta water. The starch in it binds the cream and cheese into a smooth sauce, and it is what stops the dish from being either dry or greasy.
• Cut the vegetables to a similar size. They cook at the same rate that way, and every forkful has a bit of each.
• Do not overcook the vegetables. They should be bright green and still slightly crisp, since they keep cooking in the hot sauce.

Common Substitutions & Variations

• Double cream won't whip if you swap it, but for the cooking itself, full-fat crème fraîche or a lower-fat single cream works in its place.
• An eighth of a teaspoon of garlic powder per clove is the usual stand-in when you are out of fresh garlic — it will not caramelise the same way, but it carries the flavour.

What to Serve with Pasta Primavera

• A crisp green salad
• Garlic bread
• Chilled white wine

Storing & Reheating Pasta Primavera

Best eaten straight away. Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to 2 days and are good cold as a pasta salad, or reheated gently with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

Pasta Primavera FAQ: Common Questions

Pasta Primavera Nutrition

Per serving, calculated from the ingredient list. Treat these as an estimate — brands and cuts vary.