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ASPARAGUS PASTA

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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

  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. Serve:
  • Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
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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!