Springtime is a season of renewal, and what better way to celebrate than with a dish that showcases the vibrant flavors of the season? Creamy Pasta with Asparagus is a perfect choice for a light yet indulgent meal. This recipe combines the delicate taste of blanched asparagus with a rich, creamy sauce, enhanced by the nutty flavor of toasted pine nuts and the sharpness of Parmesan cheese. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 4 ounces bow tie pasta
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 clove garlic, finely minced
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon of chicken soup base, preferably L.B. Jamison’s
- 2/3 cup heavy cream
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 6 slender asparagus spears, cut diagonally into 2-inch segments and blanched
- 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- Additional Parmesan cheese, for garnishing
Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta: Begin by cooking the bow tie pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Once the pasta is drained, set it aside.
- Blanch the Asparagus: While the pasta cooks, blanch the asparagus by boiling it briefly and then plunging it into ice water. This helps retain its vibrant green color and crisp-tender texture. Cut the asparagus into 2-inch pieces.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the finely minced garlic and sauté until it is fragrant but not browned, about 1 minute. Stir in the chicken soup base and mix well.
- Combine Ingredients: Gradually pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Let the mixture simmer gently until it begins to thicken. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir continuously until it melts, resulting in a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Mix Pasta and Asparagus: Add the cooked pasta and blanched asparagus to the skillet, tossing them in the creamy sauce until everything is evenly coated. Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Add Final Touches: Sprinkle the toasted pine nuts and chopped parsley over the pasta. Toss lightly to distribute the nuts and herbs throughout the dish.
- Serve and Garnish: Transfer the pasta to serving plates and garnish with additional Parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
Conclusion
Creamy Pasta with Asparagus is a celebration of spring’s freshest flavors combined with a rich, indulgent sauce. This dish is easy to prepare yet elegant enough to serve on special occasions. The combination of creamy sauce, tender asparagus, and the crunch of toasted pine nuts creates a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. Enjoy this delightful pasta dish with family and friends, and savor the essence of the season.
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