This Asparagus Lemon Pasta is a bright and fresh dish, perfect for spring! With tender asparagus and a zesty lemon sauce, it’s light and satisfying.
I love how simple it is to whip up! Just cook the pasta, sauté the asparagus, mix it all together, and you have a yummy meal that feels fancy without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: This shape is great for catching the sauce. If you’re gluten-free, try using gluten-free penne, or any other pasta shape you enjoy – farfalle or fusilli works well too!
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus gives the best flavor and texture, but you can swap it with green beans or broccoli if they’re what you have on hand. Just ensure they’re cut into smaller pieces for even cooking.
Frozen Peas: These are super convenient, but if you prefer fresh, use them when they’re in season. They add a lovely sweetness, so feel free to add a bit more if you like!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice nutty flavor. For a vegetarian option, look for vegetarian Parmesan or use Pecorino Romano. Nutritional yeast is a great cheese alternative if you’re dairy-free.
How Do I Make Sure My Asparagus is Cooked Perfectly?
One of the key steps is to cook the asparagus just right so it remains tender-crisp. Overcooking can make it mushy, so keep an eye on it!
- Trim the tough ends of the asparagus before cutting them into 1-inch pieces.
- Once you add it to the skillet, cook for only 3-5 minutes. It should be bright green and tender but still have a slight crunch.
How Can I Get the Most Flavor from the Lemon?
The lemon is crucial for brightening up your dish. Zesting first ensures you capture those fragrant oils, which really amplify the taste.
- When zesting, only take the bright yellow part of the lemon to avoid the bitter white pith.
- Juicing right after zesting helps keep the flavor fresh and vibrant. Adjust according to how lemony you like your dish!
Asparagus Lemon Pasta Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup frozen peas
For the Flavor Base:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious asparagus lemon pasta takes about 25 minutes to prepare and cook. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fancy weekend meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Penne Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions, making sure it’s al dente. Once it’s done, reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water and then drain the pasta. Set it aside for later.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet, pour in the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant, but be careful not to burn it!
3. Cook the Asparagus and Peas:
Next, toss the asparagus pieces into the skillet. Cook them for about 3-5 minutes until they are tender-crisp, stirring frequently. After that, add the frozen peas and cook for another 2 minutes. They just need to be warmed through.
4. Add Broth and Lemon:
Pour the vegetable or chicken broth into the skillet. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. Then stir in the lemon juice and zest for that fresh, zesty flavor.
5. Combine with Pasta:
Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet along with the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together gently until well combined, ensuring every piece of pasta is coated in that delicious mixture.
6. Stir in the Cheese:
Remove the skillet from the heat and mix in the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as you like.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the pasta warm, garnished with extra grated Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley. Dig in and enjoy your tasty asparagus lemon pasta!
Can I Use Fresh Asparagus Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh asparagus works great in this recipe. Just make sure to trim and cut it into 1-inch pieces, and you might need to adjust the cooking time slightly—fresh asparagus usually cooks in about 4-6 minutes until tender-crisp.
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you want to keep it dairy-free or simply don’t have Parmesan on hand, nutritional yeast is a great substitute! It provides a cheesy flavor without the dairy. You can also use Pecorino Romano for a similar texture and flavor if you want to stick with cheese options.
How Do I Store Leftover Asparagus Lemon Pasta?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist and prevent sticking.
Can I Make This Pasta Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply substitute the penne pasta with a gluten-free pasta alternative, like brown rice or chickpea pasta. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package, and you’ll have a delicious gluten-free meal!
