Description

This creamy lemon asparagus pasta with peas and parmesan brings together irresistible flavor and simplicity. Perfect for a quick dinner, it features fresh ingredients and a delightful texture, making it an ideal choice for anyone craving a comforting homemade meal.

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 (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 asparagus and finish cooking it until 'al dente'. Just before draining, incorporate the frozen peas, allowing them to soften. Reserve half a cup of the cooking water, then drain.
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the pancetta until crispy. If needed, add a teaspoon of oil to the skillet.
Once done, transfer the crispy pancetta to a plate lined with paper towels.
Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk for about a minute.
Gradually add the wine or broth, continuing to whisk until the mixture thickens. Then, slowly pour in the heavy cream while whisking until it thickens further.
Mix in the garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, and parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper as desired.
Combine the pancetta, drained pasta, asparagus, and peas in the skillet and toss gently.
If a creamier sauce is desired, add some of the reserved cooking water.
Serve right away, topped with extra parmesan cheese and chopped parsley or basil.

Notes

For fresh peas, add them directly to the pot a few minutes before draining the pasta instead of using frozen peas.
Adjust the consistency of the sauce with reserved pasta water according to personal preference.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 685
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 920mg
Fat: 45g
Saturated Fat: 23g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 55g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 21g
Cholesterol: 120mg