Creamy Lemon Asparagus Pasta

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Ever find yourself craving a taste of spring? This asparagus pasta recipe is like sunshine on a plate! It is creamy, lemony, and packed with fresh green goodness.

You know, sometimes the simplest things are the best.

Brief Overview

Originating from the classic pasta primavera recipe , this dish highlights seasonal vegetables. This easy asparagus pasta is ready in under 40 minutes.

The recipe yields four servings, perfect for a family dinner or a small gathering.

Main Benefits

Asparagus is a nutritional powerhouse, packed with vitamins and antioxidants. This vegetarian asparagus pasta is perfect for a light yet satisfying meal.

What makes this recipe special? The bright, fresh flavors and the effortless preparation, honestly.

look into into Creamy Lemon Asparagus Pasta

This creamy asparagus pasta recipe is a celebration of spring flavors. Tender asparagus spears meet perfectly cooked pasta. It's all bathed in a light, luscious lemon infused cream sauce.

A sprinkle of Parmesan adds a delightful salty kick, turning a simple dish into something truly special. It's basically a hug in a bowl, innit?

Why this Pasta Primavera Recipe is a Winner

Let's be real, we all love food that doesn't take ages to cook. This recipe is easy peasy, because it's all about boiling pasta and blanching asparagus.

You just whip up a quick sauce. Perfect for those weeknights when you're knackered.

From Fridge to Fork: Time to Cook

This quick asparagus pasta dinner is lightning fast, I promise!

Prep time is about 15 minutes, just chopping and measuring.

The cooking time clocks in around 20 minutes. So, that's 35 minutes total from start to finish. Seriously, less time than it takes to order takeaway.

What You'll Need for Your Spring Pasta Recipe

Here's what you need to make this asparagus pasta with parmesan magic happen. I have made it a couple of times and these ingredients are spot on.

• 1 pound of your favorite pasta. Linguine or spaghetti work great.
• One pound of fresh asparagus. Don't forget the salt!
• Olive oil and garlic.
• Cream, Parmesan, lemon juice, zest, and red pepper flakes if you're feeling spicy.

Let's Talk About Cooking Like a Pro

Honestly, I once overcooked the asparagus, and it was a mushy disaster! The trick is to blanch it briefly . That way, it stays crisp tender and keeps that vibrant green color.

And don't be shy with the salt in your pasta water! It really makes a difference.

Ingredients & Equipment for Spring Pasta Recipe Magic

Right then, let's gather the goodies to make this creamy asparagus pasta ! Honestly, this easy asparagus pasta is all about fresh, vibrant flavours.

Think of it as sunshine on a plate - perfect for a quick asparagus pasta dinner ! You know? It is a very good Vegetarian asparagus pasta option.

Main Ingredients

Here's what you need to create this spring delight.

• Pasta: 1 pound (450g) of your favourite pasta. Linguine or spaghetti works best.
• Asparagus: 1 pound (450g) fresh asparagus. Look for firm, bright green spears. If they are bendy, they will be old.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (30ml) for sautéing. Go for good quality stuff; it makes a difference.
• Garlic: 2 cloves , minced finely. Fresh is always best!
• Heavy Cream: 1/2 cup (120ml) . This gives that lovely creaminess.
• Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup (60ml) , grated. And more for serving, of course! The finer grated the better.
• Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons (30ml) , freshly squeezed. Bottled stuff just isn't the same.
• Lemon Zest: 1 teaspoon . Adds a lovely citrusy fragrance.
• Red Pepper Flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (optional). For a little bit of a kick.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste. Don't be shy!
• Fresh Parsley: Chopped, for garnish. Makes it look all fancy.

Seasoning Notes

Essential spice combinations and aromatic enhancers elevate your asparagus pasta with parmesan to the next level. Honestly, don't underestimate the power of good seasoning.

• Lemon and Garlic: This combo is a match made in heaven. Don't skip the zest!
• Red Pepper Flakes: Just a pinch adds a subtle heat. If you like it spicy, add more!.
• Parmesan: This adds a salty, savoury depth. Pecorino Romano is a great alternative.

Substitution wise, you can easily swap parsley for basil or chives.

Equipment Needed

Here's the gear to have ready to knock out this Asparagus linguine

• Large Pot: For boiling pasta. Needs to be big enough!
• Large Skillet: For the sauce.
• Colander: To drain the pasta.
• Zester: For that lemony goodness.
• Lemon Juicer: Makes life easier, but not essential.
• Measuring cups and spoons: for accurate cooking.

You can totally use a regular knife if you don't have a zester. Just be careful! A fork will work for juicing the lemon too.

Improvise, adapt, overcome!. Think of it as a lovely Pasta primavera recipe . Now go make some delicious lemon asparagus pasta !

Cooking Method: Asparagus Pasta Perfection

Prep Steps: Getting Your Ducks in a Row

Right, before we even think about turning on the hob, let's get organized. This asparagus pasta is all about fresh ingredients and quick cooking. You know, essential mise en place is key.

First, chop your asparagus. Snap off the woody ends, then slice into 1-2 inch pieces. Next, mince two cloves of garlic.

Honestly, fresh garlic makes all the difference. Have your 450 grams of pasta at the ready, plus 120ml of cream , 60ml of parmesan , lemon, the oil, the seasoning, etc.

Ready to go!

Don't forget to zest your lemon before you juice it! Trust me, it's easier that way.

step-by-step: From Hob to Heaven

Ready to get this spring pasta recipe bubbling? Here's how:

1. Chuck your pasta into a pot of boiling, salted water. Cook until al dente . Remember to reserve about 240ml of the pasta water!
2. During the last 2 minutes of pasta cooking, add the chopped asparagus to the boiling water. This quickly blanches it.
3. Drain the pasta and asparagus together.
4. In a large frying pan, heat 30ml of olive oil over a medium heat. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Don't let it burn!
5. Stir in 120ml of heavy cream , 60ml of parmesan , 30ml of lemon juice , lemon zest, and a pinch of red pepper flakes, if you fancy a kick. Simmer for 2- 3 minutes, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Add the cooked pasta and asparagus to the pan. Toss it all together, adding pasta water as needed to get a lovely creamy sauce.
7. Season to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.

Pro Tips: Asparagus Pasta Like a Boss

Want to elevate your creamy asparagus pasta recipe ? Here's the secret.

First, always reserve pasta water. It's liquid gold. The starch in it helps to emulsify the sauce. Second, don't overcook the asparagus. You want it crisp tender.

Also, taste as you go. It is essential. This allows to adjust the seasoning. Too bland? More salt. Not lemony enough? A squeeze more juice.

This will make for a fantastic asparagus pasta with lemon and garlic .

Recipe Notes for Your Killer Asparagus Pasta!

Okay, so you're about to dive into this creamy asparagus pasta recipe , right? Here are a few little nuggets of wisdom I’ve picked up along the way to make your Spring pasta recipe an absolute belter.

Honestly, it's easier than putting up shelves from IKEA.

Serving Suggestions: Show It Off!

Presentation is key, innit? Get your asparagus pasta with parmesan looking its best. Plating this easy asparagus pasta is a doddle.

Twirl the pasta into a nest on each plate. Arrange the asparagus artfully on top. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan and fresh parsley seals the deal.

For sides, some crusty garlic bread is banging. Or, try a simple green salad with a zingy vinaigrette to cut through the richness.

For a drink, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc is lovely, but a cold beer works just as well, you know?

Storage Tips: Save Some for Later (Maybe!)

If you have any leftovers of this vegetarian asparagus pasta , lucky you! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It'll be good for about 3 days .

Freezing this asparagus linguine isn’t the best shout, as the cream sauce can get a bit funny. But, if you must, use a freezer safe container and consume within one month .

Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce. Microwaving is fine too, just keep an eye on it!

Variations: Make It Your Own!

Fancy a change from this delicious recipe of Lemon asparagus pasta ? For a meaty twist, chuck in some pan-fried chicken or prawns. Or make a full on Pasta primavera recipe .

For a dairy-free version, swap the cream for cashew cream or oat cream. It's still lush, I promise! You can also mix up the veggies; peas or broad beans are great additions to your asparagus pasta with lemon and garlic , especially when in season.

Nutrition Basics: Feel Good Food

This quick asparagus pasta dinner is surprisingly good for you. Asparagus is packed with vitamins. Parmesan adds a boost of protein and calcium.

It's roughly 450 calories per serving. It contains about 20 grams of protein, 20 grams of fat, and 50 grams of carbohydrates.

Remember, these are approximate values. These values will change based on the specific ingredients you decide to use.

Right then, go forth and conquer! Making this asparagus pasta is easier than you think. Enjoy every single mouthful, and don't forget to tag me in your photos! You got this!

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I prevent my asparagus from getting soggy in asparagus pasta?

Nobody wants soggy asparagus! The key is to blanch it briefly. Add the asparagus to the boiling pasta water for just the last 2 minutes of cooking, or blanch separately for 2 minutes and then plunge into an ice bath. This keeps it crisp tender and brilliantly green, like it's just come from Chelsea Flower Show.

Can I make asparagus pasta ahead of time?

While asparagus pasta is best served fresh, you can prep some components in advance. Cook the pasta and blanch the asparagus, then store them separately in the fridge. Make the sauce just before serving and toss everything together.

Avoid fully assembling the dish ahead of time, as the pasta can absorb the sauce and become a bit mushy a right old bother, that is!

What are some good variations for this asparagus pasta recipe?

Fancy a bit of a change? Add some grilled chicken or pan-fried shrimp for extra protein a touch of luxury, really! For a vegetarian or vegan option, swap the heavy cream with cashew cream or oat cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

If you are feeling spicy, a pinch more of red pepper flakes can wake this up!

Is it okay to use frozen asparagus for my asparagus pasta?

Fresh asparagus is always best for this dish, but frozen asparagus can work in a pinch. Just be sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before adding it to the pasta. Keep in mind that frozen asparagus tends to be a bit softer than fresh, so you might want to reduce the blanching time to avoid a mushy texture.

If in doubt, always aim for fresh it’s worth the extra effort!

How long will leftover asparagus pasta last in the fridge?

Properly stored in an airtight container, leftover asparagus pasta should be good for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce. Microwaving is also an option, but the pasta may become a bit drier.

Is asparagus pasta healthy? What are the nutritional benefits?

This asparagus pasta can be part of a balanced diet! Asparagus is a great source of vitamins and fiber. You can make it even healthier by using whole wheat pasta and reducing the amount of cream. Remember portion control is key! You could also add more veggies for a lower carb and higher fiber meal.