02 Jun 2025
Cook time 25 min
Prep time 20 min
Ingredients:
12 oz pasta
1 leek
2 garlic cloves
2 tbsp butter
1 cup chinese peas
3/4 cup green beans
3/4 lb asparagus
1 cup peas
2 cups heavy whipping cream
3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
Spaghetti Primavera is a classic Italian dish that celebrates the flavors of fresh, seasonal vegetables. This recipe incorporates a variety of vibrant vegetables like leeks, peas, green beans, and asparagus, all brought together with a creamy, buttery sauce and finished with grated Parmesan cheese. It's a perfect, light yet filling meal that's ideal for spring and summer dining.
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
- Trim the leek and slice it into thin rounds.
- Mince the garlic cloves.
- Trim the Chinese peas and green beans.
- Trim the asparagus and cut into 2-inch pieces.
- If using fresh peas, shell them; if using frozen, simply set them aside.
2. Cook the Pasta:
- Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add a generous amount of salt.
- Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
- While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the sliced leeks and minced garlic.
- Sauté the leeks and garlic for about 3-5 minutes until the leeks are soft and translucent.
4. Add the Vegetables:
- Add the Chinese peas, green beans, asparagus, and peas to the skillet.
- Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender but still bright and crisp.
5. Make the Cream Sauce:
- Pour the heavy whipping cream into the skillet with the vegetables.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes until the sauce starts to thicken slightly.
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy vegetable sauce.
- Sprinkle in 3/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
- Toss everything together to evenly coat the pasta with the sauce and vegetables.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
7. Season and Serve:
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Transfer the Spaghetti Primavera to serving plates or bowls.
- Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley if desired.
8. Enjoy:
- Serve immediately while hot, and enjoy your delicious and creamy Spaghetti Primavera!
Tips:
- Always use fresh vegetables for the best flavor and texture.
- Cook the pasta until al dente to ensure it retains a firm texture when mixed with the sauce.
- Blanch the vegetables first to maintain their bright color and crisp texture.
- Reserve a cup of pasta cooking water to help adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
- Combine the cheese into the sauce off the heat to prevent it from becoming stringy or clumping.
With its combination of fresh vegetables and creamy sauce, Spaghetti Primavera is a beautiful and delicious dish that will impress your family and friends. This recipe is perfect for making the most of seasonal produce and delivering a delightful meal. Follow these tips and enjoy your homemade Italian classic!