What are the best spring vegetarian pasta dishes? Please don’t say pesto!
David, Bristol, England, UK
Happily for you, David, meat-free pastas really come into their own when spring comes around.
“All the beautiful greens, such as asparagus and peas, are coming out,” enthuses Simona Di Dio, the chef/co-owner at Bottega Caruso in Margate, who suggests giving peas a chance with her favourite dish from childhood: “It’s super-simple but very comforting.”
Fry sliced onion in lots of extravirgin olive oil and, once they’re sizzling, throw in fresh mint and a handful of peas per person. “Add a finger of boiled water, a little tomato sauce, season, then cover and cook until the peas are tender.”
This dish hinges on a flavourful broth, so season well; add dried chilli, if you…