Pea and Broccoli Pappardelle Pasta Recipe: Delicious and Nutritious

 Welcome to my West Virginia Kitchen!  If you're looking for a tasty, nutritious, and easy-to-make pasta dish, look no further! 

This Pea and Broccoli Pappardelle Pasta Recipe is a mouth-watering Combination of fresh vegetables, vibrant flavors, and comforting pasta.  It's the perfect weeknight meal for these summer nights.  I can't wait to share it with you so...

Let's Get Started!

WHY PEA AND BROCCOLI PAPPARDELLE?

Pappardelle, a wide and flat pasta, is ideal for soaking up all the delightful flavors of the sauce and vegetables.  Combining peas and broccoli not only adds a burst of color, but also packs a nutritional punch.  Peas are rich in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, while broccoli provides a great source of vitamin K and C, folate, and potassium.

INGREDIENTS:

• 8 oz package of Pappardelle Pasta
• 1 cup Frozen Peas
• 2 cups Broccoli Florets
• 2 Tbsp Olive Oil 
• 1 Tbsp Garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Lemon Zest
• 2 Tbsp Lemon Juice
• 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese, grated
• Salt and Pepper, to taste
• Fresh Basil or Parsley, garnish

INSTRUCTIONS:

1.  Cook the Pasta:  Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.  Add the pappardelle pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.  Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

2.  Prepare the Vegetables:  While the pasta is cooking, steam the broccoli florets until tender, about 5 minutes.  If using fresh peas, add them in the last 2 minutes of steaming.  If using frozen peas, simply rinse them under warm water the thaw.  

3.  Sauté the Garlic:  In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.  Add the minced garlic and sauté  until fragrant, about 1 minute.

4.  Combine Ingredients:  Add the cooked broccoli and peas to the skillet.  Stir gently to combine and heat through.  Add the lemon zest and juice, stirring to mix.  

5.  Mix with Pasta:  Add the drained pappardelle pasta to the skillet.  Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

6.  Add Cheese and Season:  Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until well combined.  Season with salt and pepper to taste.  

7.  Garnish and Serve:  Transfer the pasta to serving plates.  Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and a little extra Parmesan if desired.  Serve immediately.

TIPS FOR THE PERFECT PEA AND BROCCOLI PAPPARDELLE:

• Use Fresh Ingredients:  Fresh peas and broccoli  can elevate the flavor, but frozen works just as well in pinch.  
• Don't Overcook the Pasta:  Aim for al dente pasta to ensure it has a slight bite and holds the sauce well.  
• Save the Pasta Water:  The Starchy pasta water helps bind the sauce to the pasta, creating a creamy texture without the need for heavy cream.  

VARIATIONS TO TRY:  

• Add Protein:  For a healthier meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even tofu.
• Spice It Up:  Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic for a spicy kick.  
• Different Greens:  Swap out broccoli for asparagus or green beans for a seasonal twist.  

NUTRITIONAL BENEFITS:

This pea and broccoli pappardelle pasta not only tastes great, but is also packed with nutrients.  Broccoli is known for its cancer-fighting properties, while peas provide a good source of plant-based protein and fiber, aiding in digestion and keeping you full longer.  The combination of the olive oil and lemon offers healthy fats and a fresh, zesty flavor.

Enjoying a plate of Pea and Broccoli Pappardelle Pasta  is a delightful way incorporate more vegetables into your diet while indulging in the comforting allure of pasta.  This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a leisurely weekend meal.  

And as always...

Happy Eatin' Y'all!

~The Kitchen Wife~