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Asparagus Pasta with Lemon and Parmesan Recipe

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4.1 from 72 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Asparagus Pasta is a light and creamy pasta dish featuring tender asparagus, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and lemon. This quick and elegant meal combines fresh spring vegetables with a smooth, flavorful sauce, perfect for a refreshing dinner during the warmer months.

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 12 ounces fettuccine or penne pasta

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Garnish

  • Fresh parsley or basil, chopped

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine or penne pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta.
  2. Sauté asparagus: While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the trimmed asparagus pieces and sauté them for 4 to 5 minutes until they are tender-crisp, retaining a slight bite.
  3. Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic to the skillet with the asparagus and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant, making sure not to burn the garlic.
  4. Create the sauce: Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and add ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously until the Parmesan melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
  5. Add lemon flavor: Mix in 1 tablespoon lemon juice and 1 teaspoon lemon zest to brighten the sauce with fresh citrus notes.
  6. Toss pasta with sauce: Add the drained pasta into the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat the noodles in the creamy asparagus sauce. Gradually add the reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce to your preferred consistency.
  7. Season and garnish: Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley or basil before serving to add a fresh herbal finish.

Notes

  • For added protein, consider adding grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp.
  • Using freshly grated Parmesan cheese results in the smoothest, creamiest sauce.
  • Best served immediately to enjoy the creamy texture and vibrant flavors.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Find it online: https://sarasplate.com/asparagus-pasta-with-lemon-and-parmesan-recipe/