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A bowl of penne pasta with bright green asparagus, peas, and fresh mint in a light cream sauce.

Delightful Spring Pea and Asparagus Pasta

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic , minced
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Cook pasta according to package directions, adding the asparagus and peas during the last 3 minutes of cooking time.
  • Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and vegetables.
  • In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Whisk in heavy cream and bring to a light simmer.
  • Return the pasta and vegetables to the pot and toss to coat.
  • Stir in Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice, adding reserved pasta water as needed for consistency.
  • Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  • Garnish with fresh mint and serve immediately.