Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsDowntowner Woodfire GrillPenne Primavera Recipe

Penne Primavera Recipe

Time30m
Serves4

Penne pasta, asparagus, grape tomatoes, spinach, and red bell peppers in our house-made creamy white sauce, topped with parmesan

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Ingredients

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Pasta

Creamy White Sauce

Method

Cooking Pasta

  1. 1

    Boil the Penne

    In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Preparing Vegetables

  1. 2

    Sauté the Vegetables

    In a large skillet over medium heat, add a tablespoon of olive oil. Add the asparagus and red bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften. Add the grape tomatoes and spinach, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts. Remove from heat and set aside.

Making the Creamy White Sauce

  1. 3

    Prepare the Sauce

    In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the flour and cook for another minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes, stirring frequently.

  2. 4

    Add Cheese and Seasonings

    Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.

Combining Ingredients

  1. 5

    Mix Pasta and Sauce

    Add the cooked penne pasta to the sauce and mix until the pasta is well coated. Gently fold in the sautéed vegetables to combine.

Serving

  1. 6

    Plate the Dish

    Divide the Penne Primavera among serving plates. Top each serving with additional grated Parmesan cheese as desired. Serve immediately.

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