Cook the penne according to the package direction, drain and set aside. Keep warm. Steam the vegetables in the following order. Start with the cauliflower and carrots and steam for 5 minutes. Add the broccoli and zucchini to the same steamer and and steam for an additional 5 minutes. Remove from the heat and set aside. Just before serving, in a medium sized saucepan, make the basic white sauce and stir in the basil and the cheese. Remove 1 cup and set aside. To serve: Put the penne in a large hot bowl, pour in the sauce form the saucepan and toss the penne until well coated. Divide the sauced pasta among individual dinner plates and surround with a colourful crescent of vegetables. Drizzle with the reserved sauce and dust with parmesan cheese and a little black pepper.