Description

Creamy Lemon Asparagus Pasta with Peas & Parmesan is a delightful dish that combines fresh asparagus, sweet peas, and rich creamy flavors. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal any night of the week, this recipe highlights the wonderful taste of lemon and parmesan, making it irresistible to pasta lovers!

Ingredients

Scale

8 ounces orecchiette pasta
8 asparagus spears (chopped into about 1-inch pieces)
1 cup frozen peas (or fresh peas if they are in season)
1 teaspoon olive oil (optional)
8 ounces pancetta (diced)
2 tablespoons butter (preferably unsalted)
1 tablespoon flour
1/4 cup white wine or broth (chicken or vegetable broth)
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 lemon zest and juice
1/3 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
salt & pepper to taste
chopped fresh parsley or basil and parmesan cheese for garnishing.

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Instructions

Cook the pasta in salted water according to package directions. A few minutes before the pasta is done, add the chopped asparagus and finish cooking until 'al dente'. Before draining, add the frozen peas to the pot and drain, reserving 1/2 cup of the cooking water.
While the pasta cooks, in a large skillet over medium heat, cook the pancetta until crispy. Optionally, use a teaspoon of olive oil to grease the skillet if needed. Transfer the cooked pancetta to a plate lined with paper towels.
Drain any excess fat from the skillet, then melt the butter over medium heat.
Sprinkle flour into the melted butter and whisk constantly for about a minute.
Slowly pour in the wine or broth and continue whisking until it thickens. Gradually pour in the heavy cream and whisk until thickened.
Stir in the garlic powder, lemon juice, lemon zest, and parmesan cheese. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Add the pancetta, drained pasta, asparagus, and peas to the skillet, tossing gently to combine.
If a creamier consistency is desired, add some reserved cooking water.
Serve immediately with additional parmesan cheese and chopped parsley or basil.

Notes

For fresh peas, add them directly to the pasta later in the cooking process to maintain their texture.
Adjust the amount of cream for desired richness and consistency.
Extra lemon juice can enhance the flavor, so feel free to adjust to taste.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 620
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 36g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Unsaturated Fat: 11g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 51g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 23g
Cholesterol: 100mg