Description
A quick and creamy parmesan sauce is tossed with pasta and sweet spring vegetables, making a light yet satisfying dish full of fresh flavor.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 12 oz pasta (such as penne or fettuccine)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup baby spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add asparagus and peas to the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes until tender.
- Stir in the baby spinach and cook until wilted, about 1 minute.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
- Cook for 1–2 more minutes until everything is heated through.
- Serve garnished with fresh chopped parsley.
Notes
- You can substitute other spring vegetables like zucchini or snap peas.
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if preferred.
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 60mg