Name: Creamy Lemon Asparagus Pasta with Peas & Parmesan
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup flour; 2 eggs; 1/2 cup milk

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Creamy Lemon Asparagus Pasta with Peas & Parmesan is a delightful dish that seamlessly blends the freshness of spring vegetables with the comforting richness of creamy pasta. Imagine twirling your fork around a plate filled with tender, sautéed asparagus, sweet peas, and perfectly al dente pasta, all enveloped in a luscious lemon-infused sauce. Each bite delivers a burst of zesty flavor, while the Parmesan cheese adds a nutty depth that elevates this simple meal into something truly special. It’s a dish that not only satisfies cravings but also feels light yet indulgent, making it ideal for any occasion.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Creamy Lemon Asparagus Pasta with Peas & Parmesan
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Creamy Lemon Asparagus Pasta with Peas & Parmesan

Creamy Lemon Asparagus Pasta with Peas & Parmesan

I first stumbled upon this recipe during a warm spring evening when the vibrant colors of fresh vegetables beckoned from the farmer’s market. The moment I took my first forkful, I was transported to a sun-kissed Italian terrace where the air is filled with laughter and the aroma of cooking fills your soul. Now, I can’t help but whip this up whenever I want to impress my dinner guests or simply treat myself to a comforting meal that’s quick and easy. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, Creamy Lemon Asparagus Pasta with Peas & Parmesan is a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: In just 35 minutes, you can create this delightful dish from start to finish.
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of creamy sauce, zesty lemon, and fresh veggies is a flavor explosion.
Eye-Catching Appeal: Bright green asparagus and peas bring a lovely pop of color to your plate.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for a cozy dinner, lunch, or even a dish to impress at a potluck.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable for vegetarian diets, making it a universal crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients You’ll Need

12 ounces pasta (linguine or fettuccine recommended): Choose your favorite type for a delicious base. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can also work well.
1 bunch asparagus (about 1 pound), trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces: This gives a fresh crunch and green color to the dish. You can substitute with green beans if needed.
1 cup frozen peas: These add sweetness and a pop of color. Fresh peas can be used in season, but I find frozen peas to be just as delightful.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Essential for sautéing the vegetables. Extra virgin olive oil will enhance the flavor profile.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic brings an aromatic quality to the dish. Adjust to taste for those who love a stronger garlic flavor.
1 cup heavy cream: This creates that creamy richness that makes this pasta so comforting.
Zest and juice of 1 lemon: For a refreshing burst of citrus that brightens the entire dish. Use fresh lemons for the best flavor.
¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese: This adds a salty, nutty flavor and helps thicken the sauce. Try Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste, or nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t skip these! They enhance all the flavors in your dish.

How to Make Creamy Lemon Asparagus Pasta with Peas & Parmesan

Boil the Pasta: Start by cooking 12 ounces of your pasta choice in a large pot of salted boiling water. Cook according to package instructions, typically around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1 cup of the cooking water for later use.

Sauté the Asparagus: While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 bunch of trimmed asparagus pieces and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until they turn bright green and are tender-crisp. Keep an eye on them; you want them vibrant and flavorful!

Add the Peas and Garlic: Toss in 1 cup of frozen peas along with 3 cloves of minced garlic, cooking for another 2-3 minutes. The garlic will quickly become fragrant—a sign it’s time to add the cream!

Incorporate the Cream: Gently pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring to combine all the ingredients. Allow the cream to simmer on low heat for about 2-3 minutes, letting it thicken slightly while you prepare for the next step.

Mix in the Lemon: Add the zest and juice from 1 lemon, stirring well. This step is crucial, as the citrus brightens up the sauce beautifully. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste, enhancing the overall flavor.

Combine with Pasta: Add the drained pasta into the skillet, tossing everything together to coat the noodles evenly in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired consistency.

Finish with Parmesan: Finally, mix in ¾ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce and create that irresistible cheesiness. Give everything a good stir and check for seasoning before serving.

Storing & Reheating

To store any leftovers, let the pasta cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze portions, make sure to place them in freezer-safe containers and consume within 2-3 months. When reheating, a gentle heat on the stovetop or microwave should suffice; adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water can help restore creaminess, though the texture may change slightly.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Make sure to cut your asparagus into even-sized pieces for consistent cooking.
Use fresh garlic for the best flavor; pre-minced options can lack punch.
If you like a lighter sauce, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Overcooking the pasta can lead to mushy texture; keep an eye on it!
Feel free to add protein like grilled chicken or shrimp for a hearty variation.
Leftovers can taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together—just be sure to store them correctly!

Every kitchen needs a go-to recipe that pleases the palate and the soul, and this Creamy Lemon Asparagus Pasta with Peas & Parmesan fits that description perfectly. The delightful medley of fresh, spring ingredients with that creamy touch means you’re not just making dinner; you’re creating a moment of culinary joy. Don’t hesitate to experiment; toss in your favorite veggies or adjust the seasonings to make it your own. Enjoy every delicious forkful!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While fettuccine and linguine work beautifully, you can swap in any pasta you like. Whole wheat, gluten-free, or even a fun shape like farfalle would blend seamlessly in this dish.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, opt for half-and-half or even a combination of milk and Greek yogurt for a creamy texture without the heaviness. Coconut cream is a great dairy-free alternative but will impart a slight coconut flavor.

How do I ensure the asparagus stays crisp?

To keep asparagus tender-crisp, avoid overcooking during the sautéing process, and make sure it remains bright and vibrant in color. Cooking for just 3-4 minutes is usually perfect.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

While this pasta is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the ingredients in advance—chop your veggies and mix the sauce components. Cook the pasta right before you plan to serve for the best texture!

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