Description

Creamy Lemon Asparagus Pasta with Peas & Parmesan is a simple yet delectable dish, bringing together rich flavors of creamy sauce, fresh asparagus, and savory pancetta. It’s a delightful option for a quick dinner or a comforting meal enjoyed by all.

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 and finish cooking until the pasta is 'al dente'. Add the frozen peas before draining the pasta to soften them. Reserve 1/2 cup cooking water, then drain.
While the pasta cooks, in a large skillet over medium heat, cook the pancetta until crispy, adding oil if necessary (1 teaspoon optional).
Remove the pancetta and place on paper towels to drain excess fat.
Drain any fat from the skillet while keeping it over medium heat.
Melt the butter in the same skillet. Once melted, sprinkle in the flour, whisking constantly for about a minute.
Slowly pour in the wine or broth, whisking until the mixture begins to thicken. Then, slowly pour in the heavy cream, whisking until it thickens.
Add the garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, and Parmesan cheese to the sauce, seasoning with salt and pepper.
Toss in the pancetta, drained pasta, asparagus, and peas in the skillet gently.
If a creamier consistency is desired, add some reserved cooking water.
Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley or basil.

Notes

For best results, cook asparagus until just tender to maintain crunch.
Feel free to substitute pancetta with bacon for a different flavor.
Additional lemon zest can add more citrus aroma.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 570
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 900mg
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 19g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 20g
Cholesterol: 125mg