Description

Asparagus pasta with lemon is a vibrant and refreshing dish that perfectly captures the essence of spring. This delightful recipe features tender pasta tossed with crisp asparagus, aromatic garlic, and zesty lemon juice, all brought together with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Ideal for busy weeknights or elegant gatherings, this quick-to-make dish promises to impress your guests while leaving you feeling light and satisfied.

Ingredients

Scale

8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
1 cup fresh asparagus, chopped (about 8–10 stalks)
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Boil a large pot of salted water. Add pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions.
In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add chopped asparagus and minced garlic; sauté for 3-4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
Stir in lemon juice and optional red pepper flakes into the skillet with asparagus.
Drain pasta, reserving ½ cup of cooking water. Add pasta to the skillet along with reserved water; stir gently to combine.
Remove from heat, mix in grated Parmesan until melted. Serve warm with extra cheese on top if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main
Method: Sautéing
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
Calories: 450
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 290mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 60g
Fiber: 5g
Protein: 15g
Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: For added protein, consider tossing in grilled chicken or shrimp. Customize the dish by adding cherry tomatoes or spinach for extra color.