Description
Bright, fresh, and irresistibly simple, this asparagus pasta with lemon and garlic is the perfect quick dinner or easy recipe for any night of the week. Tender asparagus, zesty lemon, and aromatic garlic come together in a light yet satisfying dish that feels both comforting and refreshing. Perfect for healthy dinner ideas, quick pasta recipes, and easy food ideas.
Ingredients
12 oz spaghetti or linguine
1 tablespoon salt
1 bunch asparagus
3 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 lemon zest
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup pasta water
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta until al dente, reserving pasta water before draining
2. Trim and cut asparagus into 2-inch pieces
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet and sauté asparagus for 4–5 minutes until tender-crisp, then set aside
4. In the same pan, cook garlic gently until fragrant, then add red pepper flakes and lemon zest
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss with the garlic mixture
6. Pour in reserved pasta water gradually to create a light sauce
7. Add asparagus and lemon juice, tossing to combine
8. Stir in Parmesan cheese and mix until a smooth sauce forms
9. Season with salt and pepper, adjust lemon if needed, and serve immediately
Notes
Use fresh Parmesan cheese for best melting and flavor
Do not overcook asparagus to keep it crisp and vibrant
Add pasta water slowly to achieve a silky sauce consistency
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: quick dinner, easy recipe, pasta, healthy dinner, food ideas, lemon pasta