Orecchietta with Asparagus and Pancetta

Shopping List

• 1 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
• 4 oz. pancetta, small dice 1 shallot, minced (about 1/4 cup)
• 1 large clove garlic, minced
• 1 bunch asparagus, chopped into 1/2-inch pieces
• 1/2 cup dry white wine, or chicken broth
• 8 oz mascarpone
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 2 tbsp. Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 lb. orecchiette, cooked al dente,
• 1 1/2 cups pasta water reserved
• 1 tbsp parsley, minced kosher salt, and pepper toasted breadcrumbs

Instructions

• Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add pancetta and cook until browned, stirring frequently.
• Drain pancetta on a paper towel-lined plate, but don’t drain the skillet.
• Add shallot and garlic, cook over medium heat until fragrant and golden, about 2 mins.
• Add asparagus and cook until bright green and barely tender, about 4 mins.
• Add white wine and cook until reduced by half.
• Stir in mascarpone, lemon zest and juice, cheese, and about 1 cup reserved pasta water.
• Season with salt and pepper, cook until slightly thickened and bubbly.
• Reduce heat to low. Mix in cooked pasta, parsley, cooked pancetta, and adjust seasoning.
• Add pasta water to thin, if desired.
• To serve, spoon into bowls and top with toasted breadcrumbs.