Fettuccine with Alfredo Sauce
Serves 6
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tsp garlic, chopped
- 2 tbsp shallot, chopped
- 1 lb. fettuccine pasta
- 12 oz. medium-width asparagus spears, trimmed and cut crosswise into 2-inch pieces, option
- 1 ½ cup heavy cream
- 1/2 tsp. kosher salt, plus more for pasta water
- 1/2 tsp. black pepper, plus more for garnish
- 2 cups freshly grated parmesan cheese, divided, plus more for garnish
- 1/2 tsp. lemon zest, optional
- 1 Tbsp. lemon juice, optional
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, add the butter, then cook the shallot and garlic until softened.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook the pasta according to package directions, adding the asparagus during the last 2 minutes.
- Meanwhile, while the pasta is cooking, add the cream to the saucepan with shallot and garlic. Season with salt and pepper. Add 1 cup of cheese and the lemon zest.
- Drain the pasta and asparagus *reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, and immediately pour them in with the cream mixture. Toss a few times to coat, then add the lemon juice and the remaining 1 cup of cheese. Toss to combine, thinning with pasta water as needed to make a silky sauce. Garnish with pepper, and additional cheese. Serve immediately.
