STEP 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water for later use. Toss the cooked pasta with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to prevent it from sticking while you prepare the sauce.

STEP 2: Sauté the Vegetables

While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent.

Next, add the red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, and zucchini to the pan. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant. The colors of these vegetables will start to pop, giving the dish its signature “confetti” appearance. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to season, and stir to combine.

STEP 3: Add the Spinach and Tomatoes

Once the other vegetables are softened, add the spinach to the pan and sauté for an additional 2 minutes, just until the spinach wilts. Be careful not to overcook the spinach; it should retain its bright green color. Add the cherry tomatoes, and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the tomatoes begin to soften and release their juices. The tomatoes will add a burst of sweetness and flavor to the dish.

STEP 4: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

To create the creamy sauce, reduce the heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir well to combine, allowing the cream to meld with the vegetables and create a velvety sauce. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to slightly thicken. As the sauce thickens, add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese melts into the sauce. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if desired) for a bit of heat.

If the sauce gets too thick, you can add some of the reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

STEP 5: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy vegetable sauce. Toss the pasta in the sauce until it is evenly coated. If needed, add more pasta water to help the sauce coat the pasta better. Continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes so that the flavors can meld together.

STEP 6: Serve and Garnish

Once the pasta is fully coated and everything is hot, remove the pan from the heat. Serve the pasta in large bowls or on a platter, garnishing with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a pop of color. The fresh herbs not only enhance the appearance but also add a fresh, aromatic flavor to the dish.