Description

Enjoy the delightful flavors of Creamy Lemon Asparagus Pasta with Peas & Parmesan, featuring tender orecchiette, crispy pancetta, and a rich lemon cream sauce. This quick and satisfying dish is perfect for a speedy dinner or a comforting meal any day of the week.

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 it's done, add the asparagus to finish cooking until 'al dente'. Add frozen peas before draining to soften them. Reserve 1/2 cup of cooking water, then drain.
While the pasta cooks, prepare the pancetta. If needed, grease the skillet with a teaspoon of oil. Cook the pancetta in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy, then transfer to a lined plate to drain excess fat.
Remove any fat from the skillet before making the sauce.
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, whisking until it thickens. Slowly add the heavy cream, continuing to whisk until it thickens more.
Mix in the garlic, lemon juice, zest, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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, topping with additional Parmesan and chopped parsley or basil.

Notes

For fresh peas, add them just 2 minutes before the pasta is done cooking to prevent overcooking.
Feel free to use any short pasta of your choice if orecchiette is unavailable.
Adjust the seasoning to taste, and add more lemon juice if you prefer a tangier flavor.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 600
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 700mg
Fat: 36g
Saturated Fat: 19g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 20g
Cholesterol: 90mg