This bowtie pasta is light and fresh, just in time for warmer weather. The bowtie pasta prepared with lemon, asparagus, pancetta, spinach, cheese and herbs.
8 oz. farfalle pasta
3 T. olive oil, divided
4 oz. package, diced
pancetta
2 large cloves garlic, minced
1 1/2 c. reduced-sodium chicken stock/broth, divided
5 oz. package baby spinach
1 lb. asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1 inch pieces
2 t. grated lemon peel
2 T. fresh lemon juice
2 T. cornstarch
.75 oz. package fresh basil, thinly sliced
1/2 c. shredded Parmesan, Romano, or Asiago cheese
freshly ground black pepper
In a large pot of well salted, rapidly boiling water, cook pasta until al dente, about 6 - 8 minutes; drain.
Wash spinach; drain.
While pasta is cooking, in large skillet, heat 2 T. olive oil over medium-high heat. Add pancetta; cook stirring often until crisp, about 8 minutes. Add garlic; cook 1 minute. Add 1/2 c. stock/broth and spinach; reduce heat; cook stirring often until spinach wilts, about 3 minutes; stir in asparagus.
In a 2-cup measure, whisk together remaining 1 c. stock/broth, lemon peel and
juice, and cornstarch until smooth. Add to skillet; cook stirring often until slightly thickened, about 2 - 3 minutes.
Place pasta in large serving bowl; toss with the remaining 1 T. olive oil. Add spinach mixture, basil, and cheese; toss until well mixed. Season with pepper, to taste.
Makes 8 side dishes or 4 main dish servings.