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Creamy Asparagus and Pea Pasta Recipe Easy Homemade Parmesan Delight

creamy asparagus and pea pasta - featured image

A quick and easy creamy pasta dish featuring tender asparagus tips, bright peas, and a luscious Parmesan sauce, perfect for spring and summer meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces (340 g) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or farfalle)
  • 1 bunch (about 1 pound/450 g) asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 1 cup (about 150 g) frozen peas, thawed
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
  • 1 cup (about 100 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Optional: fresh basil or parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces (340 g) of pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 9-11 minutes). Reserve 1 cup (240 ml) of pasta water before draining.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 2 tablespoons unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the trimmed asparagus pieces and sauté for about 4-5 minutes until tender-crisp and bright green.
  3. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  4. Add 1 cup (150 g) thawed peas and 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream to the skillet. Stir gently and let warm through for 2-3 minutes. If the cream thickens too much, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
  5. Lower heat to medium-low and gradually stir in 1 cup (100 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese and the zest from 1 lemon. Stir until cheese melts and sauce is smooth. Add reserved pasta water 1 tablespoon at a time if sauce is too thick.
  6. Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss gently to coat with sauce and veggies. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh basil or parsley if desired, and extra Parmesan on the side.

Notes

Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency. Do not overcook asparagus to keep it tender-crisp. Freshly grate Parmesan for best flavor and melting. If sauce separates, whisk gently or add more cream or pasta water. For dairy-free or gluten-free versions, substitute ingredients accordingly.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy pasta, asparagus pasta, pea pasta, Parmesan pasta, spring pasta, easy pasta recipe, vegetarian pasta