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Springtime Pasta Primavera

This vibrant springtime pasta primavera is a celebration of seasonal greenery, bringing together the delicate flavours of tender asparagus, snappy green beans, and sweet garden peas. Coated in a light, silky sauce made with single cream and nutty Parmesan, it offers a sophisticated yet simple way to enjoy a variety of fresh vegetables. The addition of raw plum tomatoes at the end provides a bright, acidic contrast to the rich buttery base, making it an ideal choice for a transition-season dinner.

As a versatile vegetarian main course, this dish is perfect for a quick midweek meal or a relaxed weekend lunch with friends. The recipe relies on high-quality produce, so look for the freshest stalks and pods available at your local market. Serve it simply with a side of crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce, or add a handful of pea shoots for an extra touch of elegance.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Springtime Pasta Primavera

  • 350g farfalle pasta

  • 60g unsalted butter

  • 110g haricots verts (thin tender green beans), ends trimmed

  • 120ml thin asparagus tips and stalks, sliced in 1-inch pieces

  • 120ml fresh peas

  • 80g white mushrooms, thinly sliced

  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper

  • 120g half-and-half

  • 60g grated Parmesan cheese

  • 4 seeded and diced ripe plum tomatoes

  • 2 tablespoons snipped fresh chives

How to make Springtime Pasta Primavera

  1. In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta until just tender, about 12 minutes. Drain and set aside.

  2. Melt the butter in a large pot over medium-low heat and quickly sautéthe vegetables until just tender. Do not overcook. Season well with salt and pepper. Add the half-and-half and cook to thicken the sauce, 5 minutes. Season well with pepper. Toss in the drained pasta and sprinkle with Parmesan. Garnish with diced tomatoes and chives or pea shoots, if available. Serve immediately.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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