Creamy Lemon Vegetable Pasta Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 cups Almond Breeze Unsweetened Original Almondmilk or Almond Breeze Extra Creamy Almondmilk
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small shallot, minced
• 12 asparagus spears, cut into 1-inch pieces (woody ends discarded)
• 1 (14 oz) can quartered artichoke hearts, drained
• 3 cups fresh spinach leaves
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3/4 cup frozen peas
• 8 ounces whole wheat farfalle pasta (or any pasta of your choice; gluten-free is fine)
• 2 tablespoons butter (or vegan butter)
• 2 tablespoons flour (can use gluten-free flour)
• Zest of 1 large lemon
• Juice of 1 large lemon
• 4 lemon slices
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• Parmesan cheese, vegan parmesan cheese, or nutritional yeast for garnish

Directions

Step 1: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced shallot, asparagus pieces, artichoke hearts, spinach leaves, garlic, and frozen peas. Cook for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and the spinach is wilted.

Step 2: Transfer the vegetables to a large bowl and set them aside while you prepare the pasta and sauce.

Step 3: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add salt generously and cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.

Step 4: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour, ensuring there are no lumps. Gradually whisk in the Almond Breeze almond milk, about 1/2 cup at a time, until the sauce is smooth and well combined.

Step 5: Add the lemon zest to the skillet and continue whisking until the sauce comes to a boil. Lower the heat and let it simmer until it thickens, stirring occasionally.

Step 6: Stir in the lemon juice and lemon slices. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 7: Add the cooked pasta to the thickened sauce, tossing gently to coat. Stir in the cooked vegetables from Step 1 and mix until everything is well coated with the creamy lemon sauce.

Step 8: Remove the lemon slices with tongs or a spoon. Garnish with chopped fresh basil and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese, vegan parmesan, or nutritional yeast, depending on your preference.

Step 9: Serve warm and enjoy your creamy lemon pasta with vegetables!

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size: 1 serving (out of 5 servings)

Nutrient	Amount per serving	% Daily Value
Calories	391
Total Fat	11g	14%
Saturated Fat	4g	19%
Cholesterol	13mg	4%
Sodium	344mg	15%
Total Carbohydrate	74g	27%
Dietary Fiber	20g	73%
Total Sugars	18g
Protein	16g	32%
Vitamin C	198mg	220%
Calcium	496mg	38%
Iron	9mg	47%
Potassium	1553mg	33%

Recipe Author: Almond Breeze

History of Origin

The origins of creamy lemon pasta dishes are closely linked to traditional Italian cuisine, where pasta is often combined with fresh, seasonal ingredients like lemon and vegetables. Lemon pasta, in particular, is a popular dish in the southern regions of Italy, such as the Amalfi Coast, known for its abundant lemon groves. The creamy lemon sauce adds a modern twist to a classic concept, making the dish rich and comforting yet still fresh and light. Over the years, this recipe has gained popularity internationally, particularly in health-conscious circles, as it combines the creamy texture of a rich sauce with the refreshing taste of citrus and wholesome vegetables.

Regional Variations

This dish, although modern in its creamy interpretation, draws inspiration from several regional Italian dishes. The use of lemon in pasta is prevalent in regions along the coast, like in Sicilian or Amalfi Coast cuisine, where citrus fruits are a staple. Some variations include the addition of seafood, like shrimp or clams, to enhance the fresh, tangy flavor of the lemon. In other regions, like Tuscany, the addition of creamy sauces, often made with butter or olive oil, provides a richer contrast to the bright citrus. The choice of vegetables, such as spinach and asparagus in this recipe, is typical of northern Italy, where seasonal, green vegetables are common ingredients in pasta dishes.

Distinguishing Features

What makes this creamy lemon vegetable pasta stand out from other similar pasta dishes is the balance of creamy richness and fresh citrus. Unlike more traditional Italian pasta with cream-based sauces (such as Alfredo), this recipe uses almond milk as the base, making it lighter and suitable for dairy-free diets. Additionally, the dish includes a wide array of vegetablesartichokes, spinach, asparagus, and peasmaking it not only a delicious, but a healthy option. This combination of flavors creates a unique contrast that is both savory and refreshing, with a bright and tangy finish from the lemon.

Where It Is Typically Served

Creamy lemon vegetable pasta is perfect for a casual weeknight dinner, offering a refreshing change from heavier pasta dishes. It is often served as a main dish during the warmer months, particularly in spring and summer, when vegetables are in season and the weather calls for lighter meals. While you may find variations of this dish in Italian restaurants or cafes, its also a popular choice for home cooking, as it is both simple and satisfying. Additionally, this dish fits well into plant-based and vegetarian menus due to its emphasis on vegetables and almond milk. Many people enjoy it as a quick and healthy lunch or dinner option.

Fun Facts

• The lemon, known for its tangy and refreshing flavor, is actually a hybrid fruit believed to have originated in the Himalayas, although it was first cultivated in Italy in the 2nd century BC.
• The creamy element in this dish comes from a plant-based twist using almond milk, a popular alternative to dairy milk that is also lower in calories and fat, making the recipe lighter than traditional creamy pastas.
• Almond milk has been used for centuries, dating back to the Middle Ages, and is known for being both lactose-free and highly versatile in cooking and baking.
• This dish is a great example of how classic Italian pasta recipes are being adapted to modern tastes, incorporating plant-based ingredients to cater to a variety of dietary preferences.

Recipe Instructions

For a detailed recipe and to see the step-by-step instructions, visit the original recipe page.

FAQ about Creamy Lemon Vegetable Pasta Recipe

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