Creamy Lemon Asparagus Pasta

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Creamy Lemon Asparagus Pasta is a delightful dish that combines fresh vegetables and pasta in a creamy sauce bursting with lemon flavor. This meal is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is great for several reasons. First, it’s quick to prepare, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish. Second, it combines healthy ingredients like asparagus and spinach, providing a nutritious option. Lastly, the creamy lemon sauce adds a refreshing twist that makes your taste buds dance.

How to Make Creamy Lemon Asparagus Pasta

Creamy Lemon Asparagus Pasta

• Author: Alora chef
• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 15 mins
• Total Time: 25 mins
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian-inspired
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Creamy Lemon Asparagus Pasta is a light and refreshing dish that combines tender asparagus, peas, and a zesty lemon cream sauce with pasta. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a spring-inspired dinner.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or linguine)
• ½ lb asparagus, cut into 1½-inch pieces
• 1 cup frozen green peas
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter
• ½ onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup baby bella mushrooms, sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1½ tbsp all-purpose flour
• ½ cup milk (whole or 2%)
• ½ cup half-and-half
• 1 cup packed fresh spinach
• ½ tsp salt
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• ¼ cup reserved pasta water
• Grated Parmigiano Reggiano (for garnish)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. In the last 4 minutes, add asparagus, and in the last 2 minutes, add peas. Reserve ¼ cup pasta water before draining.
2. Heat oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté onions and mushrooms for 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Stir in flour and cook for another 30 seconds.
4. Gradually whisk in milk and half-and-half, simmering until slightly thickened (3-5 minutes).
5. Stir in spinach and salt until wilted.
6. Toss drained pasta and veggies with the sauce. Add lemon zest, juice, and reserved pasta water. Mix well.
7. Season with black pepper, garnish with Parmesan and parsley, and serve.

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Notes

• For gluten-free, use cornstarch instead of flour and gluten-free pasta.
• Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Substitute heavy cream for half-and-half for extra richness.
• Do not freeze; best enjoyed fresh.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 14g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

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

Directions:

1. Boil noodles according to the package. Add in the asparagus when 4 minutes remain and the peas when 2 minutes remain. Scoop out and reserve 1/4 cup starchy cooking water before draining.
2. Meanwhile, in a large non-stick skillet, heat oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms and onions and cook for 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook another 30 seconds. Stir in the flour and cook for 30 seconds.
3. Stream in the milk while stirring and then simmer over low heat for about 3-5 minutes or until slightly thickened. Stir in the spinach and salt and cook until the spinach wilts.
4. Pour the sauce over the pasta and veggies. Add 1/4 cup starchy cooking water, lemon juice, and zest, and stir all together until evenly combined. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with Parmesan and parsley.

How to Serve Creamy Lemon Asparagus Pasta

Serve Creamy Lemon Asparagus Pasta hot. You can add extra grated Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley on top for a beautiful presentation. Enjoy it with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal!

How to Store Creamy Lemon Asparagus Pasta

You can store Creamy Lemon Asparagus Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat it again, reheat it in a pan over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to bring back the creaminess.

Tips to Make Creamy Lemon Asparagus Pasta

• Make sure not to overcook the pasta; it should be al dente.
• Feel free to use any type of pasta you like, such as penne or fettuccine.
• You can add more vegetables like bell peppers or tomatoes for extra flavor and color.
• If you like it spicy, add some red pepper flakes for a kick.

Variation

For a lighter version, you can use whole wheat pasta or spiralized zucchini instead of traditional pasta. You can also substitute half-and-half with a lower-fat cream option or milk.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is already vegetarian as it contains no meat.

Can I freeze Creamy Lemon Asparagus Pasta?
It is not recommended to freeze creamy pasta dishes, as the sauce may separate when thawed.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta to enjoy this recipe while keeping it gluten-free.

Enjoy making and sharing this delicious Creamy Lemon Asparagus Pasta with your family and friends!