Creamy Lemon Herb Pasta Primavera – A Fresh Twist with Sonoma Gourmet’s Ricotta Sauce

This Creamy Lemon Herb Pasta Primavera combines spring veggies and bowtie pasta with Sonoma Gourmet's Lemon & Herb Ricotta Sauce for a fresh, flavorful weeknight dinner. 

Creamy Lemon Herb Pasta Primavera – A Fresh Twist with Sonoma Gourmet’s Ricotta Sauce

There’s something about spring that makes me crave color—on my plate, in my kitchen, and in my mood. The markets are brimming with bell peppers, zucchini, and sweet tomatoes, practically begging to be tossed into a light, vibrant pasta. Pasta Primavera has always been a favorite when the weather warms up and I want something quick yet nourishing, but this time, I stumbled on a little jar of magic that completely changed the game: Sonoma Gourmet’s Lemon & Herb Ricotta Pasta Sauce.

I wasn’t sure what to expect at first—a lemony pasta sauce? But one spoonful and I was hooked. It’s impossibly creamy without being heavy, bright with citrus, and balanced by fresh herbs and mellow ricotta. It felt like it was made for vegetables. I built the dish around that velvety texture and tangy freshness, sautéing mushrooms, yellow peppers, zucchini, and broccoli in olive oil until just tender. Then came the sauce, frozen peas for a pop of sweetness, and bowtie pasta to catch every creamy crevice. A few minutes later, I had a bowlful of spring sunshine, finished with juicy grape tomatoes and torn basil.

If you're looking for a way to shake up your weeknight pasta routine—or impress guests without stress—this dish is it. Sonoma Gourmet’s sauce does the heavy lifting, giving you restaurant-level flavor with barely any effort. Serve it with a side of crusty bread or a crisp white wine, and you've got a seasonal masterpiece that tastes as good as it looks.

What Ingredients do I need?

Produce

• Baby Bella mushrooms
• Yellow bell pepper
• Broccoli florets
• Zucchini
• Grape tomatoes
• Fresh basil

Frozen

• Green peas

Pasta & Sauces

• Bowtie pasta (farfalle)
• Sonoma Gourmet Lemon & Herb Ricotta Pasta Sauce

Dairy

• Unsalted butter

Oils & Vinegars

• Olive oil

Spices & Seasonings

• Salt
• Black pepper

Substitutions and Variations

Substitutions

Cooking should be flexible—here are a few easy swaps if you're missing an ingredient or want to change things up:

• Pasta:  No bowties? Use penne, rotini, or any short pasta that holds sauce well.

• Vegetables:  Swap in green beans, snap peas, or spinach for any of the veggies listed. Cauliflower also works well in place of broccoli.

• Frozen peas:  Canned peas work in a pinch—just rinse and add them at the end to avoid overcooking.

• Fresh basil:  Use fresh parsley or a sprinkle of dried Italian seasoning if basil isn’t available.

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully versatile—here are a few fun ways to make it your own:

• Add Protein:  Toss in grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or sliced Italian sausage for a heartier meal.

• Make it Spicy:  Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil for a gentle kick.

• Use What’s in Season:  Swap in roasted butternut squash, asparagus, or even cherry tomatoes cooked into the sauce if that’s what you’ve got.

• Try a Different Pasta:  Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber, or go gluten-free with your favorite alternative pasta variety.

Kitchen Tips and Notes

• Reserve your pasta water:  Don’t forget to save a little of the starchy pasta water before draining—it helps loosen the sauce and makes everything cling beautifully to the noodles.

• Don’t overcook the veggies:  For the best texture and color, sauté the vegetables just until crisp-tender. They’ll soften slightly more when combined with the warm sauce.

• Layer your seasoning:  Lightly season the veggies as they cook, then taste and adjust again once everything is combined. A little salt at each step builds better flavor.

• Chop evenly:  Try to keep your veggie pieces around the same size so they cook evenly and look great in the finished dish.

• Serve immediately:  This pasta is best served fresh, when the sauce is hot and silky. Leftovers are still tasty but may need a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce.

• Storage and Reheating Tips:  Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta will absorb some of the sauce as it sits, so it may thicken a bit.  To reheat, place a portion in a skillet or saucepan over medium-low heat. Add a splash of water, broth, or even a bit of milk to loosen the sauce, and stir gently until heated through. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between and adding a splash of liquid to keep the texture creamy.  Avoid freezing this dish, as the creamy sauce may separate and the vegetables can become mushy when thawed.

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💬 Let’s Chat!

Did you make this Creamy Lemon Herb Pasta Primavera? I’d love to hear how it turned out for you! Did you stick with the recipe or add your own twist?  Leave a comment below or tag me on Instagram @SliceofSouthern—I’d love to see how yours turns out!

Zesty Avocado-Romaine Power Salad with Lime Yogurt Dressing

This Zesty Avocado-Romaine Power Salad is loaded with fresh veggies, creamy feta, and crunchy pine nuts, all tossed in a tangy lime yogurt dressing. A quick, healthy, and flavor-packed side dish!

Zesty Avocado-Romaine Power Salad with Lime Yogurt Dressing 

When you're craving a side dish that's light, fresh, and full of flavor, this Zesty Avocado-Romaine Power Salad with Lime Yogurt Dressing is the one to reach for. Packed with crisp romaine lettuce, creamy avocado, sweet mini peppers, crunchy cucumbers, and toasted pine nuts, it’s as beautiful as it is satisfying. The tangy lime yogurt dressing adds a cool, creamy finish that ties everything together—and just so happens to be one of my favorite ways to brighten up a plate.

I served this power salad alongside my Zesty Lemon Butter Pork Chops the other night, and it made for the ultimate weeknight dinner pairing. The lemony, golden-seared pork chops brought all the cozy, comfort-food vibes, while the salad kept things vibrant and refreshing. The contrast in textures and temperatures made every bite feel intentional—and made the whole meal feel a little more elevated without a lot of extra work.

If you’re looking for a balanced, easy dinner that checks all the boxes—healthy, hearty, and quick to prep—this combo is one to save. Bonus tip: that lime yogurt dressing? It’s also fantastic drizzled right over the pork chops too.

Enjoy!

What Ingredients do I need?

Produce

• Romaine lettuce (2 heads)
• Persian cucumbers
• Mini bell peppers
• Avocado
• Shredded carrots
• Garlic
• Lime
• Fresh cilantro

Dairy

• Plain Greek yogurt
• Crumbled feta cheese

Pantry

• Olive oil
• Salt
• Black pepper

Nuts & Seeds

• Sliced almonds

Substitutions and Variations

Substitutions

Whether you're working with what's on hand or adjusting for dietary needs, here are some simple swaps to keep your salad just as delicious:

• Romaine lettuce → Swap with butter lettuce, green leaf, or a spring mix for a softer texture.

• Persian cucumbers → Use English cucumbers or regular slicing cucumbers (peeled if desired).

• Bell pepper → Replace with any color bell pepper or use mini peppers.

• Avocado → Skip or sub with diced mango for a tropical twist.

• Sliced almonds → Use sunflower seeds, pine nuts or chopped walnuts.

• Crumbled feta → Goat cheese, cotija.

• Greek yogurt (for dressing) → Use sour cream.

• Fresh cilantro → Try fresh parsley or basil for a different herbal note.

Variations

This salad is easy to customize based on the season, your cravings, or what’s in your fridge. Here are some delicious ways to switch things up:

• Add a Protein – Top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to turn it into a satisfying main dish.

• Make it a Grain Bowl – Add a scoop of cooked quinoa, farro, or couscous for a hearty and wholesome twist.

• Go Fruity – Toss in sliced strawberries, blueberries, or pomegranate seeds for a burst of sweetness.

• Spice it Up – Add a pinch of chili flakes or a drizzle of hot honey to the dressing for a little heat.

• Swap the Dressing – Try a balsamic vinaigrette or lemon-tahini dressing for a totally different flavor profile.

• Add Crunch – Throw in some roasted chickpeas, croutons, or tortilla strips for added texture.

Kitchen Tips and Notes

These simple tips can help you make the most of your ingredients and prep time:

• Dry your romaine thoroughly – A crisp salad starts with dry lettuce! Use a salad spinner or pat the leaves dry with a clean towel.

• Make the dressing ahead – The lime yogurt dressing can be made a day in advance. Store it in the fridge and give it a stir before using.

• Cut avocado last – To keep it from browning, slice the avocado right before serving or toss it gently in a little lime juice.

• Double it for meal prep – This salad holds up surprisingly well for a few hours. Keep the dressing separate and toss just before eating.

• Serve with - Great with my Zesty Lemon Butter Pork Chops and a loaf of crusty bread!

HUNGRY FOR MORE? Subscribe to emails at the top of this page and follow along on Facebook,  and Pinterest for all of the latest updates.

💬 Let’s Chat!

I’d love to hear what you think about this Zesty Avocado-Romaine Power Salad! Did you serve it as a light lunch, a fresh side, or pair it with something hearty like my Zesty Lemon Butter Pork Chops?

Let’s keep the conversation going—tag me on Instagram @SliceofSouthern and show off your colorful salad creations! Whether you swapped out ingredients or added your own twist, I’m always inspired by your kitchen creativity. 

Got a favorite variation? Drop it in the comments below so we can all try something new!

    RECIPE IS DOWN BELOW👇     

Zesty Lemon Butter Pork Chops – Sear, Sizzle, and Serve

These Zesty Lemon Butter Pork Chops are pan-seared to golden perfection, then baked in a rich garlic-lemon butter sauce. A quick, flavorful dinner that's perfect for any night of the week!

Zesty Lemon Butter Pork Chops – Sear, Sizzle, and Serve

Growing up, pork chops were a regular feature at our dinner table. My mom loved making them because they were easy, inexpensive, and could stretch into a hearty meal with just a few pantry staples. Whether it was a busy school night or a lazy Sunday, she always found a way to turn simple ingredients into something that felt special. This recipe for Zesty Lemon Butter Pork Chops is my modern twist on her classic—quick, light, and packed with bold, fresh flavor.

What makes this dish a go-to for me now is how weeknight-friendly it is. In just 30 minutes, you can sear thick, juicy pork chops to golden perfection, then bake them briefly in a rich garlic-lemon butter sauce that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. The lemon keeps things bright and refreshing, while the butter and garlic bring that cozy, comforting flavor we all crave. It’s a time-saving pork chop recipe that doesn’t skimp on taste—perfect for busy nights when you want something satisfying and protein-packed without the fuss.

I served these lemon butter pork chops alongside my Zesty Avocado-Romaine Power Salad with Lime Yogurt Dressing, and it was the perfect light yet flavorful dinner. The cool, creamy salad complements the warm, zesty pork beautifully, creating a balanced plate that feels both indulgent and wholesome. Whether you're cooking for family or planning a low-effort dinner for guests, this meal delivers fresh, vibrant flavor in every bite.

Enjoy!

What Ingredients do I need?

Meat & Seafood

• Boneless pork chops (about 1" thick)

Produce

• Romaine lettuce (2 heads)
• Avocado
• Persian cucumbers
• Mini sweet peppers
• Carrots (shredded or whole)
• Garlic
• Fresh cilantro
• Lemons

Deli & Dairy

• Feta cheese (crumbled)
• Plain Greek yogurt
• Unsalted butter

Pantry & Spices

• Olive oil
• Kosher salt
• Black pepper
• All-purpose flour

Nuts & Seeds

• Sliced almonds

Substitutions and Variations

Substitutions

Don’t have everything on hand? No worries—this recipe is flexible and easy to adapt. Here are some simple substitution ideas to keep things stress-free and still packed with flavor:

• Pork Chops:  Try bone-in pork chops (just increase cook time slightly) or chicken breasts/thighs for a leaner alternative.

• Fresh lemon juice: Try bottled lemon juice in a pinch

• Unsalted butter: salted butter works fine—just reduce added salt slightly.

Variations

Want to change things up? These fun and flavorful twists on the original recipe keep things exciting while staying true to the easy, fresh spirit of the dish:

• Garlic Herb Pork Chops – Add chopped fresh rosemary and thyme to the lemon butter sauce for an herby flavor boost.

• Spicy Kick – Sprinkle red pepper flakes into the lemon butter sauce or add a pinch of cayenne to the flour dredge.

• Parmesan-Crusted Pork Chops – Mix a little grated parmesan into the flour before dredging for a crisp, savory crust.

• Mediterranean-Style Salad – Add kalamata olives, cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of oregano to the salad for extra Mediterranean flair.

Kitchen Tips and Notes

Get the most out of your cooking experience with these handy tips and notes:

• Tenderizing Tip – A few light taps with a meat mallet help the pork chops cook more evenly and stay juicy. Just don’t pound them thin!

• Golden Sear – Make sure your skillet is fully heated before adding the pork. A hot pan ensures a beautiful golden crust and seals in flavor.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Sear in batches if needed so each pork chop gets proper browning. Overcrowding lowers the heat and can cause steaming instead.

• Check the Temp – Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfectly cooked pork. Aim for 150–155°F before resting—it will rise a few degrees out of the oven.

HUNGRY FOR MORE? Subscribe to emails at the top of this page and follow along on Facebook,  and Pinterest for all of the latest updates.

💬 Let’s Chat!

Did you grow up with pork chops on the weeknight dinner table too? I'd love to hear your take! Whether you followed this recipe to the letter or gave it your own creative spin, I’m all ears. What sides did you serve it with? Any fun twists you tried on the lemon butter sauce?

If you made these Zesty Lemon Butter Pork Chops, don’t forget to tag me over on Instagram! 📸
@SliceofSouthern – I love seeing what you're cooking up in your kitchen.  😍

Drop a comment below or shoot me a DM—I always love chatting food with you!

    RECIPE IS DOWN BELOW👇