Description
Asparagus Pasta with Lemon is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines tender asparagus with al dente pasta, all enveloped in a zesty lemon sauce. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests at a dinner party. With its bright flavors and stunning presentation, each bite feels like a celebration of spring.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
- 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain, reserving some pasta water.
- Sauté Asparagus and Garlic: In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add asparagus and garlic; sauté for about 5 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
- Add Lemon Juice and Zest: Stir in fresh lemon juice and zest, allowing it to simmer gently.
- Toss in the Pasta: Combine the cooked pasta with the asparagus mixture in the skillet. Toss well, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a silky sauce.
- Finish with Parmesan: Remove from heat, grate Parmesan over the top, and let it melt slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 220g)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: For added protein, consider including grilled chicken or shrimp. Feel free to mix in other vegetables like cherry tomatoes or spinach for more color and flavor.