Summer Lemon and Pea Pasta – Light and Refreshing
Embrace the vibrant flavors of summer with this Summer Lemon and Pea Pasta. This light and refreshing dish captures the essence of seasonal produce, leaving you feeling satisfied yet not overly full—perfect for busy weeknights!
Embrace the vibrant flavors of summer with this Summer Lemon and Pea Pasta. This light and refreshing dish captures the essence of seasonal produce, leaving you feeling satisfied yet not overly full—perfect for busy weeknights!
Summer Lemon and Pea Pasta
- Quick and easy preparation—ready in under 30 minutes!
- Bright, zesty flavors perfect for summer dining.
- Vegetarian-friendly and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or your choice of pasta
- 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
How to Make
To make this Summer Lemon and Pea Pasta, begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Meanwhile, in a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the peas, sautéing them until bright green and tender, about 3 to 5 minutes. Once your pasta is done, reserve a cup of pasta water and then drain the pasta. Toss it in the pan with the peas, adding the lemon juice and zest. Gradually incorporate the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired sauce consistency, and finish with the grated Parmesan. Season with salt and pepper and stir until well combined. Top with fresh basil before serving.
Tips
- For added protein, toss in some grilled chicken or shrimp.
- Make it vegan by swapping out Parmesan for nutritional yeast.
- Consider using whole-grain or gluten-free pasta to meet dietary preferences.
Make-Ahead
This pasta dish can be made ahead of time and enjoyed for lunch the next day. Simply cool it and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
Storing
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s completely cooled before sealing.
Freezing
While pasta can be frozen, due to the fresh ingredients, it’s best enjoyed fresh. However, you can freeze the sauce separately for up to a month!
Reheating
To reheat, warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth until heated through.
Serving Suggestions
This Summer Lemon and Pea Pasta pairs beautifully with a light green salad or grilled vegetables. For an extra touch of flavor, serve it with a side of garlic bread!
For the perfect kitchen companion, check out this handheld citrus juicer to effortlessly get fresh lemon juice.
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or your choice of pasta
- 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
Boil Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta until al dente.
Sauté Peas
Heat olive oil in a pan, adding peas to sauté until tender.
Combine with Lemon
Drain pasta, reserving a cup of water; mix with peas, lemon juice, and zest.
Create Sauce
Add reserved water for desired sauce consistency, stir in Parmesan, and season.
Serve
Serve topped with fresh basil.
Notes
- For added protein, toss in some grilled chicken or shrimp.
- Make it vegan by swapping out Parmesan for nutritional yeast.
- Consider using whole-grain or gluten-free pasta to meet dietary preferences.
Nutrition Facts
Frequently asked questions
Can I add protein to this pasta?
Yes, you can toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or add chickpeas for a vegetarian protein boost.
Can I use frozen peas?
Yes, frozen peas work well; just add them during the sauté until warmed through.
Is this dish vegan?
This recipe contains Parmesan cheese. To make it vegan, skip the cheese or use nutritional yeast.
What goes well with this pasta?
Pair with a light green salad or grilled vegetables; garlic bread complements nicely.
How should I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water.
