Pappardelle are long, flat, wide noodles; fettuccine or linguine work just as well. We recommend chopping the peas slightly before cooking them; otherwise, they have a tendency to roll off the pasta when you eat.
Ingredients
serves 6 to 8
Step 1
Bring a large saucepan of water to a boil, and generously add salt. Stir in the pasta; cook according to package instructions until it is al dente. Transfer to a colander, and let drain.
Step 2
Meanwhile, melt the butter in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add the shallots, and cook until they are translucent and fragrant, about 2 minutes. Add the peas, and season with salt and pepper; cook until the peas are tender and bright green, 4 to 5 minutes. Add the crab, and continue cooking, stirring constantly, until it is heated through, about 1 minute more. Add the pasta, and stir to combine.
Step 3
Stir in the cream and basil, and cook until the mixture is just heated through. Remove from heat; season with salt and pepper. Divide among serving plates, and garnish with basil. Serve immediately.
