Orecchiette with Asparagus and Peas

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more for the pasta water
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
• 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1 large bunch medium-thick asparagus (about 1 pound), peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 pound orecchiette
• One 10-ounce box frozen peas, thawed, or fresh shelled peas
• 1 bunch scallions, white and green parts, chopped (about 1 cup)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh Italian parsley
• 1 cup grated Grana Padano cheese
• Pea tendrils, for garnish

Steps

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil for the pasta. Add the olive oil to a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the garlic and let it sizzle a minute. Add the asparagus and toss to coat in the oil. Cook and toss until the asparagus just begins to soften, about 5 minutes (add a splash of pasta water if the garlic is in danger of burning). Cover with a lid.

2. Uncover the asparagus, and at the same time add the orecchiette to the pasta water. Add the peas to the asparagus and season with the salt. Toss to combine and cook 2 to 3 minutes. Add the scallions, stir, and add 1 1/2 cups of pasta water. Bring to a boil and cook until reduced by about half, 3 to 4 minutes.