Description

This Creamy Lemon Asparagus Pasta with Peas & Parmesan is a delightful blend of fresh flavors and creamy sauce. With its easy preparation and vibrant ingredients, it makes for a perfect quick dinner that doesn’t compromise on taste. Enjoy the comforting combination of orecchiette pasta, asparagus, and pancetta in this mouthwatering dish.

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 as per package directions. A few minutes before it's done, add the asparagus and cook until 'al dente'. In the last minute, add the frozen peas, then reserve 1/2 cup of cooking water and drain everything.
In a skillet, cook the pancetta over medium heat until crispy, adding olive oil if needed. Transfer the pancetta to a paper towel-lined plate.
Drain excess fat from the skillet, then melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour for about a minute.
Gradually add wine or broth, whisking until thickened, then pour in the heavy cream and whisk until it thickens again.
Mix in garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, and Parmesan cheese, seasoning with salt and pepper.
Combine the pancetta, drained pasta, asparagus, and peas in the skillet, tossing gently. Add cooking water for desired creaminess.
Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan and chopped parsley or basil.

Notes

If using fresh peas, add them directly to the pasta pot just a minute before draining, just like the asparagus.
Adjust the consistency of the sauce with reserved cooking water for a creamier texture.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 690
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 1170mg
Fat: 45g
Saturated Fat: 21g
Unsaturated Fat: 22g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 53g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 22g
Cholesterol: 109mg