Spring Pea and Asparagus Pasta
Try this Spring Pea and Asparagus Pasta recipe
Try this Spring Pea and Asparagus Pasta recipe
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- sea salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- freshly ground black pepper to taste
- pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 pound (16 ounces) whole grain pasta (conchiglie orecchiette, shells, fusilli or linguine will work)
- 4 tablespoons olive oil plus more for garnish
- 5 shallots, quartered lengthwise and sliced very thin crosswis
- 1 pound pencil-thin asparagus woody ends snapped off, and cut in 1/2-inch slices on the bias
- 2 cups shelled fresh or frozen english peas (defrost peas
- 2/3 up grated parmigiano-reggiano cheese (or regular parm plus more for garnish
- 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest (from one lemon)
- 2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice (less than one lemon)
- 1 cup roughly chopped mixed herbs (i used flat-leaf ital chives and mint, other suggestions include chervil and tarragon)
- 3/4 cup toasted pine nuts
- Carbohydrate 6.98565232913471 g
- Cholesterol 10.1766666666667 mg
- Fat 23.3183634903853 g
- Fiber 2.66193990302149 g
- Protein 5.64994535994757 g
- Saturated Fat 3.85157799250741 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (185g)
- Sodium 28.6156412338127 mg
- Sugar 4.32371242611322 g
- Trans Fat 3.30827762104899 g
- Calories 241 calories
Step-by-step
- First, prep your vegetables.
- Bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a boil over high heat.
- Cook the pasta for two minutes less than the package directions.
- Reserve 2 cups of the pasta water and drain the pasta.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in your largest frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is shimmering, add the shallots, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown (about 5 minutes).
- Add the asparagus and garlic, season with salt, and cook until the asparagus is knife-tender and bright green (about 3 minutes).
- Stir in the peas and cook until the peas are bright green (about 2 minutes).
- Add the drained pasta to the pan along with 1 cup of the reserved pasta water.
- Toss to coat.
- Cook until the sauce starts to coat the pasta (about 2 minutes).
- Remove the pan from heat and transfer its contents to a large serving bowl.
- Add the cheese and butter and stir to coat. (Add more pasta water as needed. The sauce should just cling to the pasta.)
- Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, herbs and pine nuts.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as required (add a pinch of salt, red pepper flakes and/or a squeeze of lemon juice if desired).
- Grate some cheese over the top and garnish with freshly ground black pepper and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Serve immediately.
A Springtime Delight: Spring Pea and Asparagus Pasta
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and healthy meal can feel like a Herculean task. But trust me, this Spring Pea and Asparagus Pasta is a game-changer. It's quick, easy, and bursting with the fresh flavors of spring – the perfect antidote to those long days at the office.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. No complicated techniques, no obscure ingredients – just fresh, seasonal produce combined with perfectly cooked pasta. The asparagus spears, tender and bright green, provide a delightful crunch. The sweet peas add a burst of freshness, and the nutty pine nuts provide a wonderful textural contrast. The whole dish is tied together with a light, flavorful sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta – you won't believe how much flavor you can pack into such a simple dish.
I often find myself reaching for this recipe when I need a quick, healthy dinner. It's a perfect weeknight meal that's equally satisfying and elegant enough for a casual dinner party. I've been known to double the recipe, serving some for dinner and storing the rest for a quick lunch the next day. It reheats beautifully and tastes just as good (or better!) the day after.
Beyond the Recipe: A Celebration of Spring
This pasta isn't just a meal; it's a celebration of the season. Spring, for me, is a time of renewal and rebirth, a time when the world awakens from its winter slumber. And this dish perfectly captures that essence. The vibrant greens, the fresh herbs – it's a visual and culinary feast that truly brings the spirit of spring to the table.
The best part? It’s incredibly adaptable. Feel free to experiment with different types of pasta. I personally love using whole wheat pasta for an added nutritional boost, but any shape you prefer will work wonderfully. You can also swap out the herbs to your liking. Basil, oregano, or even a touch of parsley would all complement the dish beautifully.
Making it Your Own: Tips and Variations
Here are a few ideas to personalize this recipe and make it your own:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
- Cheese variations: Experiment with different cheeses. Pecorino Romano or even a sharp cheddar could add a nice twist.
- Protein boost: Add some grilled chicken or shrimp for a more substantial meal.
- Vegetarian/Vegan adaptation: Easily make this vegetarian or vegan by using a plant-based butter and omitting the cheese.
This recipe is more than just a meal; it's a moment of mindful eating, a chance to appreciate the simple pleasures of fresh, seasonal ingredients. It's a dish that nourishes not only the body but also the soul.
So, the next time you're looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious dinner, give this Spring Pea and Asparagus Pasta a try. I guarantee you won't be disappointed.
Beyond the Kitchen: A Springtime Escape
The vibrant colors and fresh flavors of this dish always remind me of springtime getaways. Last spring, I took a much-needed break and went hiking in the mountains. The air was crisp and clean, the wildflowers were in full bloom, and the feeling of being surrounded by nature was incredibly restorative. This pasta dish evokes those memories, transporting me back to those peaceful moments amidst the breathtaking scenery.
It's a reminder that even in the midst of a busy life, taking time to savor simple pleasures is essential. Whether it's a delicious meal, a walk in nature, or simply a moment of quiet reflection, these moments help us recharge and reconnect with ourselves and the world around us. And this Spring Pea and Asparagus Pasta is my little slice of springtime tranquility, a comforting and delicious reminder of the beauty and renewal that spring brings.
