Go Back

Asparagus Pasta

A delightful and vibrant dish that showcases the fresh flavors of spring with asparagus, garlic, and lemon, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 pound asparagus, preferably thin
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 medium lemon zest and juice required
  • 1 ounce Parmesan cheese 1/2 cup firmly packed freshly grated or 1/3 cup store-bought grated
  • 1 pound dried spaghetti or other long pasta such as linguine or bucatini

Seasonings and Cooking Oil

  • 4 tablespoons olive oil divided
  • 1.5 teaspoons kosher salt divided
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • Fresh basil leaves for serving, optional

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Trim the asparagus and cut it into 1 1/2-inch pieces.
  • Mince the garlic, zest the lemon, and juice it until you have 3 tablespoons.

Cooking

  • Cook the pasta according to package instructions, about 9 minutes, but one minute less than al dente.
  • In a skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
  • Add asparagus, 1 teaspoon salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until bright green.
  • Add garlic and sauté for another minute. Remove from heat and stir in lemon zest and juice.
  • Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, drain the pasta, and return it to the skillet.
  • Add remaining salt and reserved pasta water to the skillet, cook for 1 to 2 minutes while tossing until pasta is al dente and water is mostly absorbed.
  • Remove from heat, add Parmesan cheese and 1 tablespoon olive oil, and toss.
  • Serve with more grated Parmesan and fresh basil if desired.

Notes

For a little more complexity, consider adding toasted pine nuts or a sprinkle of lemon zest right before serving. Adjust seasonings to your personal preference and include herbs for added flavor.
Keyword Asparagus Pasta, Fresh Ingredients, Quick Dinner, Spring Dish, Vegetarian Pasta