Description

This Creamy Lemon Asparagus Pasta with Peas & Parmesan is a delightful dish combining fresh asparagus, sweet peas, and zesty lemon, making it perfect for a quick, flavorful dinner. Enjoy its creamy texture and comforting flavors that will satisfy any pasta lover.

Ingredients

Scale

8 ounces orecchiette pasta
8 asparagus spears (chopped into about 1-inch pieces)
1 cup frozen peas
1 teaspoon olive oil (optional)
8 ounces pancetta (diced)
2 tablespoons butter (preferably unsalted)
1 tablespoon flour
1/4 cup white wine or 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. Add asparagus a few minutes before the pasta is finished cooking, then add frozen peas to defrost before draining. Reserve 1/2 cup of cooking water, then drain.
While the pasta cooks, heat a skillet over medium heat. Cook the pancetta until crispy, adding olive oil if needed. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
In the same skillet, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour for about a minute.
Slowly add the wine or broth, whisking until it thickens. Gradually add the heavy cream and whisk until it thickens again.
Stir in garlic powder, lemon juice, lemon zest, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Add the pancetta, drained pasta, asparagus, and peas to the skillet. Toss gently to combine.
If a creamier consistency is desired, add some reserved cooking water.
Serve immediately, topped with extra Parmesan cheese and chopped herbs.

Notes

If using fresh peas, add them just before the pasta finishes cooking for best results.
Adjust the amount of lemon juice based on your taste preference.
Feel free to substitute the pancetta with bacon for a different flavor.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 680
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 950mg
Fat: 40g
Saturated Fat: 20g
Unsaturated Fat: 14g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 56g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 20g
Cholesterol: 120mg