asparagus lemon pasta recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best asparagus lemon pasta recipe

I’m so excited to share with you one of my family’s favorite recipes – Asparagus Lemon Pasta. This dish has been a staple in our household for years, and it’s perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal to serve to guests, this recipe is sure to please. The combination of tender asparagus, tangy lemon, and rich pasta is a match made in heaven.

I love that this recipe is also incredibly healthy, making it a great choice for families who want to cook nutritious meals without sacrificing flavor. My kids adore helping me cook this dish, and they always get excited when they see the finished product.

It’s a great way to get them involved in the kitchen and teach them about the importance of cooking from scratch. Plus, it’s so easy to customize with your favorite ingredients and make it your own.

Over the years, I’ve perfected this recipe to ensure that it’s not only delicious but also easy to make and adaptable to different tastes. I’ve served this dish at family gatherings, potlucks, and even as a side dish for special occasions like holidays and birthdays.

It’s always a hit, and I’m confident you’ll love it just as much as we do.

Asparagus Lemon Pasta

4.5 from 1652 votes

A light and vibrant pasta dish featuring tender asparagus and a bright lemon sauce. The combination of fresh lemon zest and juice creates a refreshing flavor that perfectly complements the earthy asparagus.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time25 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 oz (340 g) spaghetti or linguine
1 bunch (about 1 lb) fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
3 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
1 lemon, zested and juiced (about 2 tablespoons juice)
1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
1/4 cup (60 ml) reserved pasta water
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, typically 8 to 10 minutes.
3Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
4While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
5Add the sliced garlic and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
6Add the asparagus pieces and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4 to 6 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
7Drain the pasta and add it directly to the skillet with the asparagus.
8Pour in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and 1/2 cup of reserved pasta water.
9Toss everything together over low heat for 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce lightly coats the pasta.
10Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese.
11Toss well to combine, adding more pasta water a tablespoon at a time if needed for a silky consistency.
12Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
13Divide the pasta among serving bowls and top with additional Parmesan and fresh parsley if desired.
14Serve immediately while hot.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Colander
Large skillet or sauté pan
Chef’s knife
Cutting board
Microplane or zester
Measuring spoons
Tongs

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 4g❤️Cholesterol: 15mg🧂Sodium: 480mg🌾Total Carbs: 52g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

For a vegetarian version, use a vegetarian Parmesan. To make it vegan, omit the cheese and add a tablespoon of nutritional yeast and an extra tablespoon of olive oil. You can also add cooked chicken or shrimp for extra protein.

Watch Video Of How Asparagus Lemon Pasta Works

This Asparagus Lemon Pasta recipe is perfect for any occasion – whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal to serve to guests. It’s also incredibly healthy, making it a great choice for families who want to cook nutritious meals without sacrificing flavor.

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily it can be customized with your favorite ingredients. My kids love helping me cook this dish, and they always get excited when they see the finished product.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Asparagus Lemon Pasta

Q: What type of pasta should I use for Asparagus Lemon Pasta?

For this recipe, I recommend using a high-quality linguine or fettuccine pasta. The long, flat shape of these noodles pairs perfectly with the tender asparagus and tangy lemon sauce.

Q: Can I use frozen asparagus instead of fresh?

While fresh asparagus is always preferred, frozen asparagus can be used as a substitute in a pinch. Just thaw it according to the package instructions before using.

Q: How can I make Asparagus Lemon Pasta more substantial?

Add some grilled chicken or shrimp to make this dish more filling. You can also add some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to increase the nutrient content.

Q: Can I make Asparagus Lemon Pasta ahead of time?

This recipe is best made fresh, but you can prepare the components ahead of time if needed. Simply store the cooked pasta, asparagus, and lemon sauce separately in the refrigerator until ready to assemble.

Q: What if I don’t have fresh lemons on hand?

You can use bottled lemon juice as a substitute in this recipe. However, keep in mind that the flavor may not be as bright and citrusy.

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