Description

This Creamy Lemon Asparagus Pasta with Peas & Parmesan features a delightful combination of flavors, creamy texture, and fresh ingredients. Perfect for a quick dinner or a healthy meal, it’s a go-to for pasta lovers seeking a tasty, homemade option.

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. A few minutes before it's done, add asparagus and finish cooking until al dente. Add frozen peas before draining. Reserve 1/2 cup cooking water, then drain pasta.
While pasta is cooking, cook the pancetta in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. If necessary, add a teaspoon of oil to grease the skillet.
Transfer the cooked pancetta to a plate lined with paper towels and drain excess fat from the skillet.
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Once melted, sprinkle in flour and whisk for about a minute.
Gradually pour in wine or broth and whisk until thickened. Slowly add heavy cream while whisking until it begins to thicken.
Stir in garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Add pancetta, drained pasta, asparagus, and peas to the skillet, tossing gently to combine.
If desired, add some reserved cooking water for a creamier texture.
Serve immediately, topped with additional Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley or basil.

Notes

For a lighter version, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk.
Make sure not to overcook the asparagus to retain its crispness.
Fresh peas can be used instead of frozen for a more vibrant flavor.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 670
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 900mg
Fat: 40g
Saturated Fat: 20g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 55g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 24g
Cholesterol: 90mg