Pin it
I created this spring pasta one evening when my garden was bursting with fresh vegetables. The magic happens when creamy mascarpone meets tender spring vegetables and that crunchy garlicky breadcrumb topping. Now it's our favorite way to welcome warmer weather turning simple pasta into something that tastes like pure springtime.
Why This Works
Every bite brings perfectly cooked pasta wrapped in silky mascarpone sauce with crisp vegetables and that irresistible breadcrumb crunch. Takes just basic ingredients turns them into something that tastes restaurant worthy. Perfect when you want something quick but special enough for company.
Your Shopping List
- The Base: Good fusilli or rotini catches all that creamy sauce. Fresh asparagus tender peas bright spinach bring spring flavors.
- Make It Creamy: Rich mascarpone cheese creates instant sauce fresh parmesan adds depth.
- The Crunch: Fresh breadcrumbs or panko chopped almonds fresh garlic butter makes them golden.
Let's Cook
- Start With Crumbs
- Get butter foamy toast those breadcrumbs almonds garlic until golden fragrant. Set aside while you cook pasta.
- Cook Your Pasta
- Get that water boiling salt it well. Add pasta then asparagus near the end dump peas in your colander.
- Build The Sauce
- Wilt spinach right in the pot add back pasta vegetables stir in that creamy mascarpone.
- Make It Special
- Top each bowl with plenty of those crunchy breadcrumbs maybe extra parmesan.
Pin it
Kitchen Secrets
Save some pasta water before draining helps thin the sauce if needed. Toast those breadcrumbs watching close they can burn quick. Add vegetables in stages keeps everything perfectly crisp tender. Mascarpone should be room temperature melts easier.
Serve It Right
Perfect with a crisp green salad on the side. Some garlic bread never hurts soaks up that creamy sauce. A glass of white wine makes it feel extra special. Keep extra breadcrumbs nearby everyone always wants more.
Save Some For Later
Store leftover pasta separate from breadcrumbs keeps everything perfect. Warm gently add splash of water gets creamy again. Make extra breadcrumbs they're good on everything keep in sealed container. Perfect for quick spring dinners all season.
Mix It Up
Try different pasta shapes orecchiette catches sauce nicely. Switch up vegetables whatever looks fresh at market. Sometimes I add lemon zest brightens everything up. The recipe welcomes creativity while keeping that spring freshness.
Pin it
Make It Yours
Play with vegetables until you find your perfect mix. My kids love extra peas husband adds red pepper flakes. Some friends make it richer others keep it light. That's what makes cooking fun taking a simple pasta making it exactly how your family loves it.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
- You can make the breadcrumb topping ahead and store separately. The pasta is best served fresh, but leftovers keep for up to 4 days in the fridge.
- → What can I substitute for mascarpone?
- Cream cheese mixed with a little heavy cream can work as a substitute. The texture will be slightly different but still creamy and delicious.
- → Can I use different vegetables?
- Yes, you can swap in other spring vegetables like broccoli or green beans. Just adjust cooking times to ensure they're tender-crisp.
- → Why did my mascarpone sauce separate?
- Keep mascarpone cold until needed and warm it gently. Overheating causes separation. Stir just until creamy and immediately mix with pasta.
- → Can I use dried breadcrumbs instead of fresh?
- Fresh breadcrumbs give the best texture, but panko can work as a substitute. Reduce the toasting time as dried breadcrumbs brown faster.