This creamy pasta primavera is the perfect way to enjoy a bounty of vegetables without sacrificing the comfort of a rich, satisfying pasta dish. Al dente farfalle pasta is tossed with roasted bell pepper and zucchini, sweet peas and savory chicken sausage, all coated in a luscious lemon Parmesan sauce. The sauce gets its creaminess from cream cheese and a touch of butter, while lemon juice and Italian seasoning brighten every bite.
Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights when you want something delicious and wholesome. Each plate is finished with a generous shower of grated Parmesan for an irresistible, cheesy finish. Serve it as a main dish or alongside a simple green salad for a complete meal.
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Recipe details
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Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the farfalle pasta and cook until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tsp cooking oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced bell pepper and zucchini and cook until tender and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Add the peas and cook for 1 more minute. Transfer the vegetables to a plate and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced scallions and cook for 1 minute. Stir in the Italian seasoning, then add the cream cheese and cheese roux concentrate, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Add the lemon juice and zest to the sauce, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Return the cooked vegetables to the skillet, then add the drained pasta. Toss everything together until well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan and fresh herbs if desired.
Recipe Tips
For extra protein, add cooked chicken sausage slices when you return the vegetables to the skillet.
If you don’t have cheese roux concentrate, you can substitute with 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour whisked into the butter before adding the cream cheese, plus an extra 1/4 cup grated Parmesan.
Reserve more pasta water than you think you’ll need; it’s great for loosening the sauce if it thickens as it sits.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any short pasta like penne, rotini or fusilli works well in this recipe. Adjust cooking time according to package directions.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
You can substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative, use a plant-based cream cheese and omit the Parmesan or use a vegan Parmesan substitute. The sauce may be slightly less creamy but still delicious.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or milk to restore creaminess.













