Imagine a dish that captures the essence of summer in every single bite - crisp vegetables, tender chicken, and bright, zesty flavors that transport you to an Italian coastal kitchen. This Lemon Herb Summer Linguine with Chicken, Asparagus, and Snow Peas is not just a meal; it's a culinary experience that promises to revolutionize your weeknight dinner routine. With its perfect balance of fresh ingredients and quick preparation, this recipe will become your new go-to summer comfort food that's both elegant and incredibly satisfying.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces linguine
- 1 pound chicken breast, sliced
- 1 cup asparagus, cut into pieces
- 1 cup snow peas
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried herbs (basil, thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- While pasta is cooking, prepare the chicken. Season sliced chicken breast with salt, pepper, and half of the dried herbs. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through with no pink center. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add asparagus and snow peas. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until vegetables are bright green and crisp-tender, maintaining a slight crunch.
- Return chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Add lemon juice and remaining dried herbs, tossing to combine and heat through.
- Add drained linguine to the skillet, gently tossing all ingredients together. If the pasta seems dry, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to create a light sauce.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed. Serve hot, garnishing with fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Always reserve some pasta water before draining - its starchy magic helps create a silky sauce that clings perfectly to your linguine.
- For maximum flavor, let your chicken rest after cooking to retain its juiciness and allow the herbs to fully infuse.
- Keep your vegetables crisp-tender by using high heat and minimal cooking time - this preserves their vibrant color and nutritional value.
- Use fresh herbs as a garnish if possible, as they'll add an extra layer of brightness and aroma to the dish.
- For a lighter version, you can substitute chicken with grilled shrimp or tofu, keeping the recipe versatile for different dietary preferences.
- Make sure to season each component separately - this layering technique ensures a more complex and rich final flavor profile.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 90mg
