Description
Healthy Asparagus Pasta with Lemon and Parmesan is a quick, light, and flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights. This recipe highlights fresh asparagus, zesty lemon, and rich Parmesan cheese, creating a comforting yet nourishing meal for the whole family.
Ingredients
1 pound (about 450g) Pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine)
1 tablespoon Olive oil
3 cloves Garlic, minced
1 pound (about 450g) Fresh asparagus, tough ends trimmed, cut into 1-inch pieces
1/2 teaspoon Salt, plus more to taste
1/4 teaspoon Black pepper, plus more to taste
1/2 cup Vegetable broth or reserved pasta water
1/4 cup Freshly squeezed lemon juice (from 1–2 lemons)
Zest of 1 large lemo
1/2 cup Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
1/4 cup Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining
- Sauté the Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant
- Add Asparagus: Add asparagus pieces, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for 3-5 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender
- Create the Sauce Base: Pour in the vegetable broth and lemon juice, bringing to a gentle simmer
- Combine and Finish: Add cooked pasta to the skillet, toss to combine, and incorporate lemon zest and Parmesan cheese until well coated
- Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with extra Parmesan and parsley before serving
Notes
Pasta water is essential to adjust the sauce's consistency.
Adjust vegetables and proteins according to availability and preference.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 500 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 70 g
- Fiber: 7 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg