I like making this tagliatelle with asparagus and peas when I want something light, fresh, and comforting at the same time. The tender pasta pairs beautifully with crisp asparagus and sweet peas in a simple, flavorful sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how this dish feels elegant without being complicated. The vegetables add brightness and texture, while the pasta makes it satisfying. I also enjoy how quickly it comes together, making it perfect for a simple yet delicious meal.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- tagliatelle pasta
- asparagus (trimmed and cut into pieces)
- peas (fresh or frozen)
- garlic (minced)
- olive oil or butter
- parmesan cheese
- lemon juice
- lemon zest (optional)
- salt
- black pepper
Directions
I start by cooking the tagliatelle in salted boiling water until al dente. Before draining, I reserve a small amount of pasta water.
In a large pan, I heat olive oil or butter and sauté the garlic until fragrant. Then I add the asparagus and cook it until just tender.
I add the peas to the pan and cook for a few minutes. Then I toss in the cooked pasta along with a splash of the reserved pasta water to help create a light sauce.
I mix everything together, then add lemon juice, parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. I toss until the pasta is well coated and creamy.
I finish with a bit of lemon zest and extra parmesan before serving.
Servings and timing
I usually get about 4 servings from this recipe. It takes me around 10 minutes to prepare and about 15 minutes to cook, so it’s ready in roughly 25 minutes.
Variations
I sometimes add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein. When I want a richer dish, I include a splash of cream. I also like adding fresh herbs like basil or mint for extra flavor.
storage/reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, I add a splash of water or broth and warm it gently to keep the pasta from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, I can use fettuccine, spaghetti, or any pasta I prefer.
Do I need fresh peas?
No, frozen peas work just as well and are very convenient.
How do I keep the asparagus from overcooking?
I cook it just until tender so it keeps a bit of crunch.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, I can skip the parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.
What can I serve with this dish?
I like serving it with a light salad or some crusty bread.
Conclusion
I keep making this tagliatelle with asparagus and peas because it’s simple, fresh, and satisfying. It’s one of those meals I enjoy when I want something quick that still feels flavorful and balanced.
Tagliatelle with Asparagus & Peas
- Author: Olivia
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A light and fresh pasta dish featuring tender tagliatelle tossed with crisp asparagus, sweet peas, and a bright lemon-parmesan sauce.
Ingredients
- 300g tagliatelle pasta
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into pieces
- 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the tagliatelle in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.
- In a large pan, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat and sauté the garlic until fragrant.
- Add the asparagus and cook until just tender, about 4–5 minutes.
- Add the peas and cook for another 2–3 minutes.
- Add the cooked pasta to the pan along with a splash of reserved pasta water to create a light sauce.
- Stir in lemon juice, parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Toss until well combined and creamy.
- Finish with lemon zest and extra parmesan before serving.
Notes
- Do not overcook the asparagus to keep it slightly crisp.
- Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.
- Frozen peas can be used without thawing.
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
- A splash of cream can be added for a richer version.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 58 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
