Creamy Spring Vegetable Pasta with Peas and Spinach
Celebrate the arrival of spring with this vibrant and flavorful pasta. Al dente pasta is tossed with sweet peas, tender spinach, and fresh herbs in a light, creamy sauce brightened with lemon zest and a hint of Parmesan. It's a quick, easy, and satisfying vegetarian meal that brings a taste of freshness to your table, perfect for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend lunch.
Equipment
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining. While pasta cooks, begin preparing the sauce.
- 2Heat olive oil in a large skillet or deep pan over medium heat. Add diced shallot (or onion) and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 3Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the heavy cream and cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- 4Add the thawed frozen peas and chopped fresh spinach to the sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring gently, until the spinach has wilted and the peas are heated through. Stir in the lemon zest and chopped parsley.
- 5Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce and vegetables. Toss to combine thoroughly. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to achieve a creamy consistency.
- 6Serve immediately in bowls, garnished with extra grated Parmesan cheese and a grind of black pepper.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add protein to this dish?
Yes, cooked chicken (shredded or diced), pan-seared shrimp, or cannellini beans would all be excellent additions to boost the protein content.
What other spring vegetables can I include?
Thinly sliced asparagus, chopped tenderstem broccoli, or even some blanched green beans would be delicious additions. Add them with the peas and spinach to ensure they cook through.
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with a full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. Omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free Parmesan substitute, or a tablespoon of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
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RECIPE BY
Leckere Rezepte
We are a team of passionate cooks and food enthusiasts.
