What's In Season: Celebrating Spring a wee bit early.

Every Monday at work, four very wonderful friends, co-workers and fellow foodies pause the hectic day with me to celebrate the seasons and what's en vogue for the time of year.

Once a week, one of us makes a wonderful meal for the group. It can be anything from yummy salads, to soups to chicken pot pies. We tend to keep it simple, savory and cozy for the time of year.

In a nerdy way, it's my thing to look forward to when I have a case of the "Mundy's".

The club started for most as a way to share cooking stories, weekend stories, and general office gossip. But for me, its a chance to practice my skills, save money (one less day to make lunch) and have some enjoyable conversation with friends.

This week was my turn to cook. And I waited till the very last minute to make it. I mean the Oscar's was on and even this food lover has priorities. :) So it had to be fresh, and quick.

As I start to prepare for my upcoming spring newsletter, I have been looking for any pea dish I can find.

This recipe combines two spring favorites. Snow Peas and Garlic.

While you can get peas and garlic at any time of the year its more flavorful to cook in season.

*Confession this recipe is pretty easy, but not pot friendly. Bit of clean up here.

Spring Harvest Pasta with Pancetta and Peas

Prep time: 10 mins 

Cooking time: 20 mins

Special tools you will need:

• Sharp knife
• Whisk

Ingredients:

• 1/2 lb pasta of your choice (go whole grain!)
• 2 tables spoons olive oil
• 3 cups fresh baby bella mushrooms
• 2 tablespoons chopped garlic
• 2 cups fresh peas, or frozen if your store doesn't have fresh
• 1 cup cubed pancetta or cooked bacon
• 3 cups milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 3 cups parmesan cheese

Method:

• Boil pot of water 
• While water boils, dust off and slice mushrooms
• Once water reaches a rolling boil, put in your pasta and cook until al dente.
• In a hot saute pan, add olive oil
• Add pancetta and stir frequently
• Once pancetta starts turning brown, add garlic, and mix with pancetta
• Add sliced mushrooms and peas to pan. 
• Continue stirring until mushrooms are soft
• In a separate pan melt butter
• Once butter is bubbling add flour and whisk until combined. It will be thick.
• Slowly add milk, in three batches. Continue whisking until all combined.
• Once well combined, add parmesan and continue whisking until smooth.
• Combine pasta, vegetables, and sauce. Toss and serve hot.

Enjoy!