Description

Enjoy the luscious flavor of Creamy Lemon Asparagus Pasta with Peas & Parmesan. This simple and satisfying dish brings together fresh asparagus, rich cream, and savory pancetta—ideal for a quick weeknight meal that’s both healthy and comforting.

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 instructions. A few minutes before the pasta is done, add the asparagus and finish cooking until al dente. Before draining, add the frozen peas to the pot.
While the pasta cooks, heat a teaspoon of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the pancetta until crispy, then remove and place on paper towels to drain.
Drain excess fat from the skillet.
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat, then sprinkle in the flour and whisk for about a minute.
Gradually pour in the wine or broth, whisking until it thickens. Slowly add the heavy cream, continuing to whisk until thickened.
Stir in garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Add the cooked pancetta, drained pasta, asparagus, and peas to the skillet. Toss gently to combine, adjusting the consistency with reserved pasta water if desired.
Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and chopped parsley or basil.

Notes

If using fresh peas, add them during the last minute of cooking the pasta.
To achieve a creamier consistency, reserve more pasta water to mix in while tossing the pasta.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 580
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 36g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 22g
Cholesterol: 110mg