Why Pasta with Asparagus and Lemon is a Great Idea
Pasta with asparagus and lemon is a great idea for a springtime dinner. Asparagus is in season during the spring, making it a fresh and flavorful addition to this dish. The lemon adds a bright and refreshing flavor that pairs perfectly with the asparagus. This dish is also quick and easy to make, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
For this recipe, you will need:
- 350g pasta
- 500g asparagus
- 1 lemon
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions.
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While the pasta is cooking, trim the asparagus and cut it into 1-inch pieces. Peel and finely chop the garlic. Zest the lemon and squeeze the juice.
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In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Add the asparagus and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until tender.
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Add the lemon zest and juice to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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When the pasta is cooked, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water and drain the rest. Add the pasta and reserved water to the skillet with the asparagus. Toss to combine.
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Sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot.
This recipe serves 4.
Variations
This pasta dish can easily be made vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You could also add some protein to the dish by adding cooked chicken or shrimp. If you prefer a creamier pasta, you can stir in some heavy cream or cream cheese at the end. Finally, you can switch up the type of pasta you use - try using penne or fusilli for a fun twist on this recipe.
Conclusion
Pasta with asparagus and lemon is a delicious and easy recipe that’s perfect for springtime. The fresh flavors of asparagus and lemon pair perfectly with the pasta, and this dish can be easily customized to suit your tastes. Give it a try and enjoy a fresh and flavorful dinner!
FAQ
Can I use frozen asparagus instead of fresh asparagus?
While fresh asparagus is preferred for this recipe, frozen asparagus can be used as a substitute. Just be sure to thaw and drain the asparagus before cooking.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use a different type of pasta if you prefer. Linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine would be good options.
How do I know when the asparagus is cooked?
The asparagus should be tender but still slightly crisp. You can test it by piercing it with a fork – it should go in easily.
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemon juice?
While fresh lemon juice is preferred for this recipe, bottled lemon juice can be used as a substitute. Just be sure to use a good quality brand.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Yes, you can add other vegetables to this dish. Sliced mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or diced bell peppers would be good choices.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While this dish is best served immediately after cooking, you can make it ahead of time and reheat it in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use a different type of cheese if you prefer. Parmesan, pecorino romano, or feta would be good options.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs?
While fresh herbs are preferred for this recipe, dried herbs can be used as a substitute. Just use about 1/3 of the amount called for in the recipe.
Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Yes, you can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth if you prefer. This will make the dish vegetarian-friendly.
Can I add meat to this dish?
Yes, you can add cooked chicken or shrimp to this dish if you prefer. Simply cook the meat separately and add it to the dish at the end.
