Spring Asparagus Pasta with Parmesan and Fresh Herbs
Bright and healthy pasta with crisp asparagus, fresh lemon, and nutty Parmesan, perfect for a light spring meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
Scale
12 ounces pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
1 pound asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional pinch of red pepper flakes
Optional toasted pine nuts for garnish
Instructions
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente; reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.
- Sauté garlic in olive oil for 1–2 minutes; add asparagus and cook 5–6 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Add lemon zest and juice; season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Toss pasta with asparagus and add reserved pasta water as needed.
- Stir in Parmesan and parsley; garnish with extra Parmesan or toasted pine nuts. Serve immediately.
Notes
Frozen asparagus can be used; add protein for a heartier meal; whole grain pasta is a healthy substitute.