Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lemon Asparagus Pasta is a fresh, zesty, and satisfying dish that brings together tender asparagus and a bright lemony sauce over your favorite pasta. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal that feels both elegant and comforting. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, this pasta is a go-to for spring and summer dinners.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

pasta (such as linguine or spaghetti)asparagusextra virgin olive oilgarliclemon juicelemon zestparmesan cheesered pepper flakes (optional)saltblack pepperfresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

While the pasta cooks, trim the woody ends off the asparagus and cut into 2-inch pieces.

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add the asparagus and cook for 4-5 minutes until just tender but still vibrant green.

Reduce the heat to low, then add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with lemon juice, lemon zest, and a splash of reserved pasta water.

Toss everything together, adding more pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce and coat the pasta.

Stir in grated parmesan cheese, season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.

Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and extra lemon zest if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 15-20 minutesTotal time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein.

Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta as needed.

Add a handful of spinach or peas for additional greens.

Top with toasted pine nuts or almonds for crunch.

Swap parmesan for pecorino or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of water to revive the sauce.Best enjoyed fresh, but still delicious the next day.

FAQs

Can I use frozen asparagus?

Yes, just thaw and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

Can I make this pasta vegan?

Yes, omit the cheese or use a plant-based alternative.

What kind of pasta works best?

Long noodles like linguine or spaghetti are ideal, but short pasta like penne or farfalle works too.

Is this dish good cold?

Yes, it makes a great cold pasta salad the next day with a splash of olive oil.

How do I keep the asparagus from overcooking?

Add it toward the end of cooking and sauté just until tender-crisp.

Can I add cream to the sauce?

A splash of cream or a spoonful of ricotta can make it richer, but it’s not necessary.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is best, but bottled can work in a pinch.

Conclusion

Lemon Asparagus Pasta is a simple yet vibrant dish that captures the essence of fresh seasonal ingredients. With just a few pantry staples and fresh produce, you can create a light, flavorful meal in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for family or a casual dinner party, this recipe offers a perfect balance of tang, texture, and taste.