Light Asparagus Pasta with Parmesan and Lemon
Course:
Side Dish / Vegetarian Main Meal
Cuisine:
American
Keywords:
Asparagus pasta recipe, how to cook asparagus for pasta, lemon asparagus pasta, lemon pasta with asparagus
Prep Time:
5 minutes
Cook Time:
15 minutes
Servings:
6 servings
Calories:
419 kcal
Author:
Beth Pierce
Ingredients
- 1 lb. fettuccine
- ¼ – ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 small onion, quartered and sliced
- 1 lb. fresh asparagus, cut into 1 ½ inch pieces
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ – ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes, to taste
- ⅓ cup grated fresh Parmesan cheese
- 8-10 fresh basil leaves
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1-1 ½ tablespoons lemon zest
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
- Cook the pasta al dente according to the package directions.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta well.
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- While the pasta cooks, heat 1 1/2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the onion and cook for about 5 minutes, or until it starts to brown on the edges.
- Add the asparagus and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until crisp-tender.
- Reduce the heat to low and add the garlic, cooking for 1 minute while stirring continuously.
- Remove the skillet from the heat.
- Combine and Toss:
- Toss the cooked pasta and cooked vegetables together with the remaining olive oil.
- Add the red pepper flakes, Parmesan cheese, basil, thyme, and lemon zest.
- Toss everything to combine well.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve:
- Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave at reduced power.
- Pasta Water: The reserved pasta water can be used to adjust the consistency of the dish if it seems too dry.
- Variations: Add other fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice for additional flavor.
Enjoy this light and flavorful Asparagus Pasta, perfect for summer grilling or a quick and delicious meal!