Who doesn’t love a delicious pasta dish that tastes fresh, creamy, and satisfying? Today, we’re going to explore a scrumptious recipe for Spring Pasta that brings together the vibrant flavors of asparagus, peas, and a creamy pesto sauce. This green pasta dish is the perfect way to welcome the season of renewal and fresh beginnings, so let’s dive right into the kitchen and start cooking!
Ingredients
To create this delicious dish, you’ll need the following ingredients for three servings:
- 350 g green asparagus: Fresh and crunchy, this vegetable brings a delightful taste to the dish.
- 225 grams of pasta: Choose your favorite pasta shape for a personalized touch.
- 100 g pesto: A fresh, flavorful sauce to add depth and character to the dish.
- 150 g peas: Sweet and tender, these provide a burst of natural sweetness.
- 1 lemon: Both the zest and juice will brighten up the flavor of the dish.
- 1 clove garlic: Provides a subtle yet distinct aromatic flavor.
- 1 onion: Adds a savory base to the recipe.
- 125 ml crème fraîche: Creamy and rich, it enhances the overall texture of the dish.
- 1 handful of grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory, cheesy element to the pasta.
- Fresh basil (optional): For an extra touch of freshness and color.
Preparation
Before you begin cooking, you’ll want to get everything prepped:
- Boil the pasta: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Save a cup of the cooking water when draining.
- Prepare the asparagus: Cut about 2 cm from the bottom of the green asparagus and discard. Optionally, peel the asparagus if the skin is tough. Cut the spears into 3 pieces.
- Chop the onion and garlic: Finely chop both the onion and garlic.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
Let’s bring all the ingredients together to create a delicious meal!
- Fry the onion and garlic: In a large pan, fry the chopped onion and garlic until they turn fragrant and slightly golden.
- Add the asparagus: Add the asparagus pieces to the pan and fry them for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Add the peas: Add the peas to the pan and cook for another few minutes until they are heated through.
- Stir in the crème fraîche and pesto: Mix in the crème fraîche and pesto sauce, creating a creamy base for the pasta.
- Add lemon zest and juice: Zest the lemon and squeeze out the juice, then add both to the creamy asparagus and peas mixture.
- Combine with pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the pan, mixing it well with the creamy sauce. Add a bit of cooking water to thin out the sauce if needed.
- Season the dish: Taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.
Serving Suggestions
Once the pasta is perfectly cooked and the sauce has reached the ideal creamy consistency, serve it with a sprinkling of grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if you like. This dish is perfect for a casual dinner with family and friends or a cozy night in.
Conclusion
Spring pasta is an excellent way to enjoy the season’s fresh produce in a flavorful, creamy dish. Combining green asparagus, peas, lemon, and a delightful pesto sauce creates a meal that’s both refreshing and comforting. Gather your ingredients, follow the cooking steps, and enjoy a delicious bowl of spring pasta!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen peas instead of fresh peas? Yes, you can use frozen peas in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them before adding them to the pan.
- What type of pasta works best for this recipe? A ny pasta shape will work, but lighter, more delicate shapes like fusilli, farfalle, or penne complement the creamy sauce best.
- Can I make this dish vegan? Absolutely! You can use vegan pesto, crème fraîche, and Parmesan cheese to make this dish vegan-friendly.
- Can I use white asparagus instead of green asparagus? Yes, you can use white asparagus if you prefer. The taste and texture will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.
- Can I store leftovers? Yes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Happy cooking and bon appétit!