Description
This Lemon Asparagus Pasta is a bright, creamy, and refreshing dish that brings together tender pasta, crisp asparagus, and zesty lemon in perfect harmony. It’s quick to make, bursting with flavor, and ideal for weeknight dinners or light lunches. With its silky lemon sauce and fresh spring vegetables, this recipe proves that simple ingredients can create something truly special.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne)
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large lemon (juice and zest)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup heavy cream or Greek yogurt (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish
Substitutions: Use gluten-free or whole wheat pasta for a healthier version, replace asparagus with green beans or zucchini, and swap Parmesan for feta or vegan cheese alternatives.
Instructions
- Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Asparagus: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add asparagus and cook for 3–5 minutes until tender and bright green. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Make the Lemon Sauce: Reduce the heat to low. Add butter to the skillet, followed by lemon juice and zest. Stir in ½ cup of reserved pasta water. Add cream or yogurt if using, and let simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until coated. Stir in grated Parmesan, adding extra pasta water as needed to achieve a creamy texture.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt, black pepper, and extra lemon juice to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan.
Notes
Serve this pasta immediately for the best texture. To reheat leftovers, add a splash of water or olive oil in a skillet over low heat. For a dairy-free version, use olive oil and coconut milk instead of butter and cream. Add grilled shrimp or chicken for extra protein.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 260mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 20mg