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Fresh Lemon Asparagus Pasta Recipe Easy Creamy Parmesan Dinner Idea

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A quick, light, and satisfying pasta dish featuring fresh asparagus, bright lemon, and a creamy Parmesan sauce. Perfect for a simple spring or summer dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 bunch asparagus, ends trimmed and cut into 1–2 inch pieces
  • 12 ounces (340g) pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or linguine)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large lemon, zested and juiced
  • 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
  • 1 cup (100g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Small handful fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Trim the tough ends of the asparagus and cut into 1-2 inch pieces.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces of pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (8-10 minutes). Reserve 1 cup (240ml) of pasta water before draining.
  3. While pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add asparagus and cook for 4-5 minutes until bright green and slightly tender but still crisp.
  4. Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  5. Lower heat to medium-low and pour in 1 cup heavy cream. Stir gently and warm without boiling.
  6. Add lemon zest and juice, then stir in 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce thickens (3-4 minutes). Add reserved pasta water a little at a time if sauce is too thick.
  7. Add drained pasta to the skillet with sauce and asparagus. Toss thoroughly to coat every strand.
  8. Season with salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to taste.
  9. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on the side.

Notes

Do not overcook asparagus; it should remain slightly crisp. Use freshly grated Parmesan for best sauce texture. Zest lemon before juicing to avoid bitterness. Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency. Add lemon juice after cheese melts to prevent curdling.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon asparagus pasta, creamy Parmesan pasta, easy pasta recipe, spring pasta, quick dinner, vegetarian pasta

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