Description
This creamy and vibrant Asparagus Pasta combines tender spaghetti with crisp-tender asparagus, luxurious cream cheese, fresh lemon zest, and a touch of Parmesan for a delightful spring-inspired dish that’s quick to prepare and perfect for a light dinner or lunch.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 8 ounces spaghetti (or your favorite pasta)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 8 ounces asparagus (trimmed and cut diagonally into 1-inch pieces)
- Salt (to taste)
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened and cubed)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente according to the package directions. Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Sauté asparagus: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the asparagus pieces, season with salt and freshly ground black pepper, and cook for 3-5 minutes until the asparagus is bright green and crisp-tender.
- Create sauce: Add the softened cream cheese to the skillet and gently stir until melted and combined with the asparagus and garlic. Then add the drained pasta to the skillet. Stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing well. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water gradually to create a light, creamy consistency.
- Toss and season: Toss the pasta well to combine all ingredients thoroughly. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of black pepper for added flavor.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and serve immediately while hot for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Use fresh asparagus for the best taste and texture, trimming off woody ends before cooking.
- Adjust the amount of reserved pasta water to achieve your preferred sauce consistency.
- For a dairy-free alternative, substitute cream cheese and Parmesan with vegan versions.
- Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can provide a subtle heat addition if desired.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: Asparagus pasta, lemon pasta, creamy pasta, spring pasta recipe, quick pasta dinner, vegetarian pasta
