Vegan Cacio e Pepe with Ramps and Lemon

Step 1

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water.

Step 2

Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Separate the ramps by the white root ends and the leafy green tops. Coarsely chop the white root ends and add them to the pan and sauté for 2-3 minutes. Add the black pepper and cook 30 seconds to 1 minute, until toasted.

Step 3

Add the reserved pasta water and bring to a simmer over medium heat and add the cooked pasta. Reduce heat to low and add the lemon juice, zest, and the leafy green tops. Toss until the greens are wilted, and the sauce coats the pasta.

Step 4

Remove the pan from the heat and divide pasta into 4 bowls. Top with cashew parmesan and extra lemon juice for zing!