What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This asparagus pasta recipe is a quick, delicious way to enjoy fresh, seasonal flavors. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something light yet satisfying. You’ll love how the tender asparagus pairs perfectly with the al dente pasta. The creamy sauce, made with simple ingredients, adds a rich, comforting touch. Plus, it’s versatile—you can easily customize it with your favorite herbs or proteins.
Recipe
Asparagus pasta is a light and flavorful dish perfect for spring or any time you crave fresh, vibrant flavors. This recipe combines tender asparagus with al dente pasta, garlic, and Parmesan for a simple yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta (such as linguine or fettuccine)
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp. Season with salt and pepper.
- Toss in the cooked pasta, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a light sauce.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and lemon juice (if using). Adjust seasoning and serve immediately.
Notes:
- For extra richness, add a splash of heavy cream or a pat of butter.
- Substitute with gluten-free pasta if needed.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories per Serving: ~300
Cuisine: Italian
Equipment
Preparing asparagus pasta requires a few essential tools to guarantee a smooth cooking process. Having the right equipment on hand makes the recipe straightforward and efficient.
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Skillet or frying pan for sautéing asparagus
- Colander for draining pasta
- Mixing bowls for combining ingredients
- Kitchen knife and cutting board for chopping asparagus
- Spatula or tongs for tossing and serving
Nutrition
Nutrient information for this asparagus pasta recipe is provided below.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein | 12g |
| Carbohydrate | 45g |
| Fat | 14g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Sodium | 300mg |
What to Serve With This Recipe
I love serving this asparagus pasta with simple, fresh sides like a crisp salad or garlic bread—it keeps the meal light but satisfying. If you’re feeling fancy, a glass of white wine, like Pinot Grigio, pairs perfectly with the dish’s bright flavors. Trust me, these combos make the meal feel extra special without much extra work. For an even more delightful experience, consider adding vanilla crepes as a light dessert to round out the meal.
Complementary Sides
Since asparagus pasta is light yet flavorful, you’ll want sides that balance it without stealing the spotlight. I love pairing it with a simple arugula salad—tossed with lemon, olive oil, and shaved Parmesan—for a fresh crunch. Roasted cherry tomatoes add a sweet burst, while garlic bread ties everything together. These sides keep the meal light but satisfying, letting the pasta shine. Trust me, it’s a winning combo!
Wine Pairing Suggestions
When it comes to pairing wine with asparagus pasta, you might wonder what works best to complement its fresh, vibrant flavors. I’d go for a crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio—their zesty acidity balances the ricotta’s creaminess. If you prefer red, a light Pinot Noir won’t overpower the dish. A chilled rosé also works, adding a fruity touch without stealing the spotlight. Cheers!
