Pasta with asparagus and lemon blend soft pasta, crisp asparagus, and the fresh taste of lemon. The slightly earthy asparagus with its delicate crunch goes perfectly with the lemon’s tangy, refreshing acidity. Together, they create a balanced flavor that is light yet satisfying, making it a great choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
In the colorful world of Italian food, pasta is a classic comfort dish, loved for its flexibility and ability to hold many different flavors. This meal not only pleases the taste buds with its bright and zesty flavors but also looks great, turning any meal into a fancy experience. Asparagus is the key vegetable here and should be fresh and bright. Thin stalks are best as they cook quickly and evenly. After cutting off the tough ends, chop the asparagus into bite-sized pieces. To keep its bright green color and nutrients, briefly blanch it before sautéing.
Lemon is what makes this dish special. Use both the juice and the zest to give the pasta a citrusy aroma and taste. The zest adds strong lemon flavor without being too tart, while the juice gives a refreshing brightness that balances any added cheese. Pasta with asparagus and lemon is more than just a meal; it captures the essence of spring in every bite. It’s perfect for enjoying outside on a warm evening or for impressing guests at a dinner party with its simple elegance. In the end, pasta with asparagus and lemon is a celebration of fresh, wholesome ingredients working together in perfect harmony. It shows the beauty of Italian cooking, where high-quality ingredients and simple preparation shine. This recipe offers a chance to create something truly special with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Tips and Tricks for Asparagus Lemon Pasta
- Cook the pasta 1-2 minutes less than the time indicated on the package. The cooking will be finished in the pan.
- If you don’t like the taste of garlic, you can either leave it out entirely or use 1 or 2 whole cloves just to add some aroma.
- When draining the pasta, it’s best to save some of the cooking water to help mix the pasta well and create a smooth and pleasant sauce.
How to store
Pasta with asparagus and lemon can be stored in the fridge for not more than 1 day.
Asparagus Lemon Pasta
Ingredients
- 200 gr asparagus
- 1 lemon
- 100 gr pecorino cheese
- 350 gr orecchiette pasta
- 2 cloves garlic
- 150 gr peas
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ glass white wine
- Salt and Pepper
Instructions
- Cut the asparagus into 2 cm long pieces.
- Finely chop 2 garlic cloves.In a large pan, melt the butter and add the oil.
- Add the chopped garlic and cook for 2-3 minutes over medium heat.
- Add the asparagus.
- Deglaze with the white wine and season with salt and pepper.
- Add the peas.
- Add the fresh lemon zest and lemon juice.
- Let it cook on low heat with a lid for 10-15 minutes.
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil for the pasta.
- Once boiling, add salt. Add the pasta and cook until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and add it to the pan with the asparagus.
- Mix well, adding the grated Pecorino cheese gradually.
- Before serving, sprinkle with more Pecorino and fresh pepper.
- Enjoy your meal!
