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Asparagus Pasta Recipe (Simple, Fresh, and Perfectly Balanced)

asparagus pasta recipe with lemon garlic and parmesan

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This asparagus pasta recipe delivers fresh flavor with crisp-tender asparagus, garlic, lemon, and Parmesan. It comes together in about 30 minutes with a light, balanced sauce that keeps the texture clean and satisfying.

Ingredients

Scale

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: cherry tomatoes

Optional: grilled chicken or shrimp

Optional: fresh herbs like parsley or basil

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 and fragrant.

5. Add asparagus and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender.

6. Add cooked pasta to the skillet along with 1/2 cup reserved pasta water.

7. Toss everything together over medium heat until coated.

8. Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese.

9. Mix until the sauce becomes smooth and lightly glossy.

10. Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper.

11. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

Cut asparagus evenly for consistent cooking.

Do not overcook asparagus to maintain a clean, crisp texture.

Use reserved pasta water to control sauce consistency.

Add lemon at the end to keep the flavor bright.

Serve right away for the best texture and balance.

Nutrition