lemon asparagus pasta recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
lemon asparagus pasta recipe
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The Best lemon asparagus pasta recipe

I’ve been making this lemon asparagus pasta recipe for years, and it’s still a family favorite. The dish originated from a traditional Italian recipe, but I’ve put my own spin on it with a bright and citrusy twist.

The combination of tender asparagus, tangy lemon sauce, and al dente pasta is absolute perfection. My kids love helping me in the kitchen, and they always get excited when they see the vibrant green asparagus and the bright yellow lemons on the counter.

We make this recipe at least once a week, whether it’s for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion like Sunday dinner. The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences.

I’ve also discovered that this recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients from the asparagus and lemon juice. Asparagus is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, while lemon juice provides a boost of vitamin C.

This dish is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re looking for a comforting meal or a show-stopping side dish for a holiday gathering.

Lemon Asparagus Pasta

Lemon Asparagus Pasta

4.5 from 1839 votes

This Lemon Asparagus Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the freshness of lemon with the earthy flavor of asparagus. It is a perfect blend of citrus and vegetables, making it a healthy and delicious meal.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

8 oz pasta
1 lb asparagus
2 tbsp olive oil
1 lemon
3 cloves garlic
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2Trim the woody ends of the asparagus and cut them into 2-inch pieces.
3Toss the asparagus with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
4Spread them evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 10-12 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
5While the asparagus is roasting, cook the pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
6Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.
7In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
8Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant and lightly golden.
9Add the juice of 1 lemon and the zest, then stir to combine.
10Add the cooked pasta and roasted asparagus to the skillet with the lemon-garlic mixture.
11Toss everything together, adding some of the reserved pasta water if needed to achieve a creamy consistency.
12Stir in the Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.
13Season with the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
14Serve immediately and enjoy.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Baking sheet
Skillet

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can add chicken or shrimp to make it a more substantial meal.

Watch Video Of How Lemon Asparagus Pasta Works

This lemon asparagus pasta recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion like Sunday dinner.

It’s easy to make ahead of time and store in the fridge or freezer for later use.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile – you can serve it hot or cold, making it perfect for potlucks or picnics.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Lemon Asparagus Pasta

1. What type of pasta is best suited for this recipe?

I prefer to use spaghetti or linguine for this recipe, as they have a good balance of texture and flavor. However, you can also use other long, thin pasta shapes like fettuccine or bucatini if you prefer.

2. Can I use fresh or frozen asparagus for this recipe?

Both fresh and frozen asparagus work well in this recipe. If using frozen, simply thaw them according to the package instructions before using.

3. How do I make sure my asparagus is cooked to perfection?

The key to perfectly cooked asparagus is to not overcook it. Steam the asparagus until it’s tender but still crisp, then set it aside until ready to serve.

4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the lemon sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours or freeze it for up to 3 months.

5. What if I don’t have fresh lemons? Can I substitute with bottled lemon juice?

While bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch, I highly recommend using fresh lemons for their superior flavor and aroma.

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