Easy Spring Asparagus Pasta Recipe

Your New Go-To Spring Dish: Easy Spring Asparagus Pasta Recipe

Bright, fresh, and oh-so-delicious, asparagus pasta is everything you need for a satisfying spring meal. Whether you’re an experienced chef or simply enjoy a comforting pasta dish, this recipe will satisfy your cravings. Packed with tender asparagus, al dente pasta, and bold flavors, it’s simple to make, vegetarian-friendly, and perfect for showcasing that vibrant spring produce. 

Get ready to bring a little magic to your dinner table! Below, I’ll guide you through the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and even offer serving and pairing ideas to make this recipe really shine.

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The Fresh Ingredients You’ll Need 

Here’s your ingredient checklist to create this simple yet indulgent asparagus pasta recipe (serves 4): 

• 1 lb (450g) pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne work great!) 
• 1 bunch fresh asparagus (about 1 lb), trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces 
• 3 tbsp olive oil 
• 3 garlic cloves, minced 
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a vegan option) 
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed for a punch of brightness) 
• 1 tsp lemon zest 
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat) 
• Salt and black pepper, to taste 
• ½ cup toasted pine nuts (optional, for added crunch) 

Ingredient Tips: 

• Out of Parmesan? Try Pecorino Romano for a slightly sharper flavor. 
• Prefer gluten-free? Swap the pasta for a gluten-free variety that suits your preference. 
• For an extra creamy version, stir in ¼ cup heavy cream or plant-based cream just before serving. 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Asparagus Pasta

Cooking this dish is straightforward and stress-free. Just follow these instructions, and you’ll have a restaurant-quality pasta in no time! 

1. Prep the asparagus 

Begin by rinsing your asparagus and snapping off the tough bottoms (they naturally break where the woody end begins). Cut the stalks into 2-inch pieces, perfect for bite-sized bursts of flavor. 

2. Cook the pasta 

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your pasta and cook until al dente (usually 1-2 minutes less than package instructions). Pro tip? Save about 1 cup of the pasta water before draining; we’ll use it later to create a silky sauce. 

3. Sauté the asparagus 

While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the asparagus pieces and a pinch of salt. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until they’re tender but still have a vibrant green bite. Remove the asparagus from the skillet and set aside. 

4. Infuse the oil with garlic and spice 

Using the same skillet, lower the heat to medium-low. Add your minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the remaining oil. Stir continuously for 1 minute, or until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. 

5. Bring it all together 

Return the cooked asparagus to the skillet, along with the drained pasta. Add the reserved pasta water, lemon zest, lemon juice, Parmesan, and a crack of black pepper. Toss together over low heat for 1-2 minutes, letting the ingredients combine to form a light, flavorful sauce that clings to the pasta. 

6. Garnish and serve 

Plate your asparagus pasta, sprinkle with extra Parmesan, toasted pine nuts, and a dash of fresh parsley if you like. Serve immediately and enjoy the medley of bright, zesty flavors! 

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Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Dish

Want to take your asparagus pasta to the next level? Here are a few serving ideas to make it even more versatile! 

• Add a protein: Pair with grilled shrimp, pan-seared chicken, or crispy tofu to create a well-rounded meal that’s still easy to prepare. 
• Mix in more veggies: Toss in cherry tomatoes, peas, or sautéed mushrooms to add extra color and flavor. 
• Wine pairing: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light, unoaked Chardonnay complements the bright, citrusy flavors of this dish perfectly. 

Read More: Top 10 Pasta Salad Recipes for Summer You’ll Love

A Dish Worth Sharing

Why does this asparagus pasta recipe deserve a spot in your weekly rotation? This recipe highlights the seasonal asparagus, necessitates minimal preparation, and delivers a robust flavor. You’ll feel like a gourmet chef, even on weeknights! 

Try it out for dinner tonight; we’d love to hear how yours turned out. Don’t forget to share your creation on social media and tag us so we can see your masterpiece!   

Happy cooking, 

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