Spring Pasta With Asparagus And Peas

Name: Spring Pasta With Asparagus And Peas
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine); 250g fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces; 150g fresh or frozen peas; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Zest and juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper, to taste; 30g grated Parmesan cheese (optional); Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Meals

I absolutely love making this Spring Pasta With Asparagus and Peas whenever the seasons change. The freshness of the asparagus and the sweet crunch of the peas create such a vibrant dish that feels light yet satisfying. Topped with a sprinkle of lemon zest and Parmesan, this pasta isn’t just a meal; it's an invitation to savor the essence of spring. Taking just 30 minutes from start to finish, it allows me to whip up an impressive dinner even on my busiest days.

Created by

Summer Blake

Last updated on 2026-02-27T17:09:35.303Z

Every spring, I find myself enchanted by the vibrant colors and freshness of the season, which inspire my cooking. While experimenting with seasonal ingredients, I discovered that pairing tender asparagus and sweet garden peas creates a delightful contrast in both flavor and texture. This dish offers a wonderful blend of crunch and richness that has become a staple in my kitchen.

One tip I’ve learned is to cook the pasta and vegetables simultaneously for maximum flavor infusion. The starchy pasta water helps create a silky sauce that clings beautifully to each bite. This technique not only makes the dish feel cohesive, but it saves time too!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The combination of fresh vegetables captures the essence of spring.
A light yet satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
Quick to prepare, allowing for more time to enjoy with loved ones.

Choosing the Right Pasta

The type of pasta you choose can significantly impact the dish's texture and overall experience. I love using spaghetti or fettuccine for this recipe, as their long strands hold onto the creamy sauce and fresh ingredients beautifully. If you're looking to try something different, consider using whole wheat pasta for an extra nutty flavor or even gluten-free options like chickpea pasta for a protein boost.

Be sure to cook the pasta until al dente—this ensures it maintains a bit of bite, which contrasts nicely with the tenderness of the asparagus and peas. Overcooking pasta is a common pitfall; aim for about 1-2 minutes less than the package suggests, especially since it will finish cooking while combined with the vegetables.

Maximizing Freshness with Vegetables

Asparagus and peas are the stars of this dish, so using the freshest produce makes a significant difference. When selecting asparagus, look for firm, bright green stalks with tight tips; they should snap easily when bent. For the peas, fresh ones should be vibrant and juicy, but in a pinch, frozen peas are a great alternative and convenient due to their ready availability and retention of vitamins.

To enhance the flavors, I recommend blanching the asparagus briefly before sautéing—just 1-2 minutes in boiling water will brighten their color and maintain a crisp texture. After blanching, plunge them into ice water to halt the cooking process, ensuring they remain bright green and tender-crisp.

A Delicious Finish with Lemon and Cheese

The addition of lemon zest and juice is crucial in this Spring Pasta dish, as it lifts the flavors and adds brightness that complements the veggies. I suggest using a microplane for zesting, which allows you to capture the fragrant oils without the bitterness of the white pith. Make sure to add the lemon juice gradually, tasting as you go, to find the right balance.

Although Parmesan cheese is optional, it adds a rich, savory depth. If you’re seeking a dairy-free alternative, nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor without the lactose. Just remember to sprinkle it generously over the final dish, as it can also soak up excess moisture, contributing to a satisfying texture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare a delicious Spring Pasta with Asparagus and Peas:

Ingredients

200g pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine)
250g fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
150g fresh or frozen peas
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper, to taste
30g grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Make sure to have all these ingredients ready for a seamless cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Spring Pasta with Asparagus and Peas:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then add the asparagus pieces and cook for about 3-4 minutes until tender.

Combine and Serve

Stir in the peas and cooked pasta. Add the lemon zest, juice, and reserved pasta water gradually, mixing until well-combined and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan and fresh basil.

Enjoy your light and refreshing Spring Pasta with Asparagus and Peas!

Pro Tips

For a heartier dish, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp. You can also substitute asparagus with other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for variety.

Storing and Reheating

Leftover Spring Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To help maintain the pasta's integrity, consider storing the components separately if possible; keep the pasta, asparagus, and peas in one container and the sauce in another. This way, the pasta won't become overly soggy when reheated.

When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, reheat them gently on the stovetop with a splash of olive oil or additional lemon juice to rejuvenate the flavors. Just warm them over low heat, stirring occasionally, until everything is heated through, usually taking about 5-7 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta dish is versatile and can be served in various ways. For a heartier meal, consider pairing it with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein; simply add cooked proteins just before combining the pasta and veggies for a complete dish. A fresh side salad can also complement the lightness of the pasta beautifully.

For a more elegant presentation, I like to serve this pasta in shallow bowls, topped with additional lemon zest, a drizzle of high-quality olive oil, and a few shavings of Parmesan. Placing a few whole basil leaves on top not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds an aromatic touch that heightens the dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen peas?

Yes, frozen peas work perfectly! Just add them during the last few minutes of cooking the asparagus.

→ How can I make this recipe vegan?

You can easily make this dish vegan by omitting the Parmesan cheese and using a plant-based pasta.

→ What types of pasta can I use?

You can use any pasta shape you prefer. Spaghetti and fettuccine work particularly well in this recipe.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of water.