Asparagus and Pasta (Fresh, Light, and Perfectly Balanced)
This asparagus and pasta recipe combines tender pasta with crisp asparagus, garlic, lemon, and Parmesan for a light, fresh, and balanced dish that comes together quickly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
12 ounces pasta (spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine)
1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
3 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 lemon, zested and juiced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Optional: fresh herbs like basil or parsley
Optional: grilled chicken or shrimp
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook pasta until just shy of al dente, then reserve 1 cup pasta water and drain.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
4. Add sliced garlic and cook until lightly golden.
5. Add asparagus and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until crisp-tender.
6. Add cooked pasta to the skillet.
7. Pour in 1/2 cup reserved pasta water and toss to combine.
8. Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese.
9. Mix until the sauce is smooth and lightly coats the pasta.
10. Season with salt and black pepper.
11. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
Cook pasta slightly under al dente so it finishes in the sauce.
Do not overcook asparagus to keep a fresh texture.
Use reserved pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.
Add lemon at the end for a bright finish.
Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Find it online: https://slicesync.com/asparagus-and-pasta/