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Lemon Asparagus Pasta

Lemon Asparagus Pasta

  • Author: Brian
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Vegan, Gluten Free, Vegetarian

Description

Lemon Asparagus Pasta combines tender asparagus with a zesty lemon punch and a creamy plant-based cheese sauce for a fresh, bright, and satisfying dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this pasta balances tangy flavors, delightful textures, and wholesome ingredients in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Vegetables

  • Fresh asparagus: 1 bunch (about 12 oz), trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
  • Garlic cloves: 2, minced
  • Chopped fresh parsley: 2 tablespoons for garnish

Pasta & Grains

  • Pasta of choice (penne, linguine, or gluten-free): 8 oz

Liquids & Oils

  • Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
  • Lemon zest: 1 teaspoon finely grated
  • Lemon juice: 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed
  • Vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural): 1 teaspoon

Dairy & Cheese Alternatives

  • Plant-based shredded cheese: 1 cup

Spices & Seasonings

  • Cracked black pepper: to taste

Instructions

  1. Prep Your Asparagus: Wash the asparagus, trim off woody ends, and cut into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and tender-crisp texture.
  2. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Reserve one cup of starchy pasta water before draining.
  3. Sauté the Aromatics and Asparagus: Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Add asparagus pieces and cook for 4-5 minutes until tender yet crisp.
  4. Make the Lemon Cheese Sauce: Reduce heat to low. Stir in plant-based shredded cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix gently until cheese melts into a creamy sauce. Add reserved pasta water as needed for desired consistency. Season with vegetarian Worcestershire sauce and cracked black pepper to taste.
  5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add drained pasta directly to the skillet with asparagus and sauce. Toss well to coat everything evenly and heat through.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for color and freshness. Serve immediately warm.

Notes

  • Choose fresh asparagus for the best sweetness and tenderness.
  • Reserve pasta water to help create a silky sauce that clings to the pasta.
  • Use finely grated lemon zest to release oils without bitterness.
  • Sauté asparagus on medium heat to maintain a slight crunch and avoid mushiness.
  • Adjust seasoning gradually, tasting as you go to balance flavors.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: International

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 180 mg
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 40 g
  • Fiber: 5 g
  • Protein: 9 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg

Keywords: Lemon asparagus pasta, plant-based cheese pasta, vegan pasta recipe, quick dinner, gluten-free pasta dish, spring pasta, lemon pasta

Find it online: https://puretastekitchen.com/lemon-asparagus-pasta/