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Lemon Asparagus Pasta

Lemon Asparagus Pasta is a delightful dish that beautifully combines the vibrant flavors of fresh asparagus and the zesty brightness of lemon. This recipe is not only quick and easy to make but also incredibly satisfying and nutritious.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Course: Main
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Easy
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces Asparagus spears Bottoms trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tablespoon Olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon Salt
  • ¼ teaspoon Pepper
  • 12 ounces Pasta Linguine or spaghetti recommended
  • 1 whole Lemon Zest and juice
  • to taste Parmesan cheese For serving, optional
  • to taste Fresh basil or parsley For garnish, optional

Instructions

  • Step 1: Cook the Pasta. Begin by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions. Be sure to salt the water generously for added flavor. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
  • Step 2: Sauté the Asparagus. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the asparagus pieces, along with the salt and pepper. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes or until the asparagus is tender but still has a bit of crunch.
  • Step 3: Add Lemon Zest and Juice. Once the asparagus is cooked, add the zest of one lemon and the juice of half the lemon to the skillet. Stir well to combine and let the flavors meld for a minute or two.
  • Step 4: Combine Pasta and Asparagus. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it all together. If the pasta seems dry, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.
  • Step 5: Serve and Garnish. Serve the Lemon Asparagus Pasta immediately. You can sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top if desired and garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Pot

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the pasta as needed.