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1
Rinse the asparagus, snap off the tough bottom stub of each spear (and save; see the recipe that follows).
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2
Slice each spear crosswise into 1/4-inch pieces; if the spear is fatter than 1/2 inch, slice it lengthwise in half or quarters.
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3
You want the asparagus pieces to be approximately pea-size.
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4
Slice the spears to make 4 cupfuls.
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5
Pour 1/4 cup of the oil into the skillet, set over medium-high heat, and stir in the onions.
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6
After a minute or two, when the onions are gently sizzling, stir in the leek pieces and 1/2 teaspoon of the salt.
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7
Cook for a minute, drop the peperoncino into a hot spot to toast briefly, then stir and cook until the leeks are hot and starting to wilt, 3 minutes or so.
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8
Dump in the green peas and stir with the other vegetables.
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9
Cover the pan, lower the heat, and let the vegetables cook, sizzling gently.
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10
Shake the pan frequently, uncover it occasionally, and adjust the heat as needed to make sure the onions arent in danger of burning.
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11
After 6 minutes or more, when the onions are pale gold and the peas are softening, stir in the asparagus pieces and the scallions, then the butter and another 1/2 teaspoon salt.
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12
Pour in 1/3 cup of water, and stir well to moisten everything.
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13
Bring the sauce to a slow simmer and keep it cooking, very slowly, over low heat, for about 30 minutes.
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14
Stir occasionally, and add spoonfuls of water to the sauce if it seems to be getting dry.
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15
The vegetables should become very soft but still retain their shape and identity the sauce as a whole should be moist and thick.
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16
When its reached this stage, turn off the heat, and stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and the shredded mint leaves.
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17
Use right away or let it cool.
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18
The sauce can be refrigerated for several days.
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19
If frozen, the texture will change but the flavor will be fine it will keep for several weeks.
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20
Both dry and fresh pastas
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21
Gnocchi
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22
As a topping for polenta
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23
As a base for risotto
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24
Potato, Leek, and Bacon Ravioli (page 186)