Asparagus and Pasta Recipe That Feels Fresh and Simple
This asparagus and pasta recipe combines tender pasta with fresh asparagus, garlic, and a light lemon Parmesan sauce for a simple, fresh, and satisfying meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
12 ounces pasta (spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine)
1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into pieces
3 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup reserved pasta water
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional: cherry tomatoes
Optional: red pepper flakes
Optional: cooked chicken or shrimp
Optional: fresh parsley or basil
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook pasta until al dente, then reserve 1/4 cup pasta water and drain.
3. Trim asparagus and cut into even pieces.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
5. Add garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
6. Add asparagus and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until tender but still bright.
7. Add cooked pasta to the skillet along with reserved pasta water.
8. Toss to combine until well mixed.
9. Stir in Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.
10. Mix until the sauce lightly coats the pasta.
11. Adjust seasoning if needed and serve warm.
Notes
Cook asparagus just until tender to keep a slight bite.
Use pasta water gradually to create a smooth sauce.
Fresh lemon juice adds brightness and balance.
Serve immediately for the best texture.
Add protein if you want a more filling meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Find it online: https://glazerush.com/asparagus-and-pasta/