Pasta Primavera with Beef Sausage and Asparagus
A vibrant dish featuring al dente pasta tossed with a medley of seasonal vegetables, including asparagus and broccolini, all enveloped in a luscious lemon-butter sauce with savory pieces of cooked beef sausage.
- Total
- 25 min
- Serves
- 4
- Level
- Adventurous
Created with Pantry Bliss
Ingredients
4 servings
For the Pasta
- 300 grams Pasta, (spaghetti, fettuccine, or your choice)
- 10 grams Salt, for pasta water
For the Vegetables
- 200 grams Asparagus, trimmed and cut into 3cm pieces
- 200 grams Broccolini, cut into bite-sized pieces
For the Sauce
- 80 grams Butter, unsalted
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 large Lemon, juice and zest
- 5 grams Black pepper, freshly cracked
- 40 grams Parmesan cheese, finely grated (optional)
For Protein
- 300 grams Cooked beef sausage, sliced
- Prep
- 10 min
- Cook
- 15 min
About this recipe
This recipe draws on the classic Italian dish Pasta Primavera, which celebrates fresh vegetables, embodying the essence of spring. The addition of beef sausage provides a hearty, savoury element that complements the lightness of the vegetables, creating a balanced dish perfect for any occasion. Inspired by our culinary roots and the seasonal produce, this dish not only pleases the taste buds but also presents a beautiful medley of colours and textures.
Method
-
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes. Reserve 200 ml of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta in a colander.
Ensure not to overcook the pasta to maintain an al dente texture. -
Step 2: Blanch the Vegetables
In the same boiling water, add the asparagus and broccolini. Blanch for 2-3 minutes until vibrant and tender-crisp. Quickly transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain and set aside.
Do not over-blanch the vegetables; they should remain bright and crisp. -
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In a large sauté pan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn it. Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and black pepper, stirring to combine.
Prevent the garlic from burning; it should be lightly golden, not brown. -
Step 4: Combine Pasta, Vegetables, and Sausage
Add the drained pasta, blanched vegetables, and sliced beef sausage to the sauté pan with the sauce. Toss everything together, gradually adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a silky sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Ensure the pasta is thoroughly combined with the sauce and warmed, but do not let it sit too long to avoid sticking. -
Step 5: Serve the Pasta
Plate the pasta primavera with beef sausage in serving bowls. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired, and add a final drizzle of lemon juice. Serve immediately.
Ensure the pasta is served hot to maintain the best flavor and texture.
Tips
- Use seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes for added variety.
- Substitute beef sausage with chicken or vegetarian sausage for a different protein option.
- Make the sauce more decadent by adding a splash of white wine after sautéing the garlic.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large sauté pan
- Wooden spoon
- Lemon juicer
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
Serve it with
Sides
-
Garlic Bread
Garlic bread complements the pasta and provides a crispy texture contrast.
-
Simple Green Salad
A fresh green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.
Goes well with
-
Caprese Salad
The freshness of mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil pairs well as an appetizer.
-
Tiramisu
This classic Italian dessert provides a sweet ending to a satisfying meal.
Drinks
-
Pinot Grigio
A crisp, citrusy wine that enhances the lemony flavours of the dish.
-
Sparkling Water
Refreshing and light, ideal for cleansing the palate.
Created by a home cook with Pantry Bliss’s AI recipe creator and shared with the community. Always check recipes for allergens and cook food to safe temperatures.
