Pasta with asparagus and lemon sauce –Are you craving a delightful and flavorful dish? Look no further! This Lemony Asparagus Pasta is not just a treat for your taste buds, but it’s also packed with nutritious veggies, hearty carbs, and a splash of wine. Perfect for a weekday dinner or a casual gathering, this recipe is as vibrant as it is delicious!
Lemony Asparagus Pasta
With a blend of fresh asparagus and zesty lemon, this pasta dish embodies the essence of spring. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavors, it’s a meal you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces of your favorite pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)
- 1 bunch of fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup white wine (optional, but recommended)
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese, grated (for serving)
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Make sure to add a generous amount of salt to the boiling water for flavor.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add the asparagus pieces to the skillet, cooking them for about 3-5 minutes until they become tender yet still slightly crisp.
- If using wine, pour it into the skillet, allowing it to reduce for a couple of minutes. This step will infuse the dish with an incredible depth of flavor.
- Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water and then drain the pasta.
- Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet with the asparagus. Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and if you like, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to help create a light sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, then combine everything well, making sure the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs. Enjoy your homemade Lemony Asparagus Pasta!
This dish is not just a feast for the eyes but also for the palate! The combination of lemony goodness, tender asparagus, and savory pasta will leave you wanting more. Don’t hesitate to experiment with additional ingredients like cherry tomatoes or grilled chicken for extra flair. Bon appétit!