Asparagus and Pasta: A Creamy, Fresh, and Easy Dinner Favorite
This asparagus and pasta recipe combines tender asparagus with a creamy Parmesan sauce and perfectly cooked pasta for a fresh, comforting, and easy meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
12 ounces pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into pieces
2 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Optional: lemon zest
Optional: cherry tomatoes
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain.
3. Cook asparagus in boiling water for 2 to 3 minutes until just tender, then drain.
4. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
5. Add garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
6. Pour in heavy cream and stir gently.
7. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until smooth and creamy.
8. Add cooked pasta and asparagus to the sauce.
9. Toss gently to combine, adding reserved pasta water if needed.
10. Season with salt and black pepper.
11. Add lemon zest if desired and serve warm.
Notes
Do not overcook asparagus to keep it bright and slightly crisp.
Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.
Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly.
Serve immediately for the best creamy texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 340mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Find it online: https://doughdazzle.com/asparagus-and-pasta/