Ingredients
Scale
-
- 300g orecchiette pasta
-
- 1 medium courgette, thinly sliced
-
- 200g asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
-
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
-
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
-
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
-
- Salt and pepper to taste
-
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
-
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add the orecchiette pasta to the boiling water and stir gently to prevent sticking. Cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente (tender but still firm to the bite).
- Before draining, carefully reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta water. This will help create a silky sauce later. Drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Allow the oil to warm for about 30 seconds.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning. The garlic should become fragrant and lightly golden.
- Cook the Courgette and Asparagus:
- Add the sliced courgette and trimmed asparagus pieces to the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender but still retain a slight crunch. Avoid overcooking to preserve their vibrant color and texture.
- Combine the Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked orecchiette pasta to the skillet with the vegetables. Sprinkle in the lemon zest and pour in the fresh lemon juice.
- Add a splash (about ¼ cup) of the reserved pasta water to the skillet. Toss everything together gently, allowing the starchy water to combine with the lemon juice and olive oil to create a light, glossy sauce. If the mixture seems dry, add more pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
- Season and Finish:
- Taste the pasta and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. Adjust the lemon zest or juice if you prefer a stronger citrus flavor.
- Remove the skillet from the heat.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Transfer the pasta to serving bowls or a large platter. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
- If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top for a savory, nutty finish. Serve immediately while warm for the best flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes