Shades-of-Green Pasta

[ButterSticks]

Makes 4 servings
Prep: 45 minutes
Cook: 10 minutes

Ingredients
12 baby artichokes or one 9-ounce package frozen artichoke hearts, thawed and quartered
4 ounces dried fettuccine or spinach fettuccine
3 medium leeks, sliced (1 cup)
1 teaspoon bottled minced garlic
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup shelled peas (about 12 ounces in the pod) or frozen peas
3/4 cup chicken broth or vegetable broth
1/2 cup coarsely snipped fresh flat-leaf parsley
2 tablespoons coarsely snipped fresh mint
Thin slices Parmesan cheese (optional)

Directions
1. If using baby artichokes, remove outer leaves until you reach pale green or yellow leaves on the bottom half. Cut darker green portion of leaves off top half of artichoke and discard. Cut off stem and trim any remaining green from base of artichoke. Quarter artichokes. Remove purple or pink leaves, if present, on the inside.

2. Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package directions. Drain; return pasta to pan.

3. Cook and stir quartered artichokes or artichoke hearts with leeks and garlic in hot oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat for 5 minutes. Add peas and broth. Bring to boiling; reduce heat. Simmer, uncovered, about 5 minutes or until artichokes are tender.

4. Add artichoke mixture, parsley, and mint to pasta; toss gently to mix. Top with Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Makes 4 servings.