Asparagus Pasta Recipe Vegetarian: Easy & Delicious Ideas

Springtime on a plate! Asparagus pasta is a delightful vegetarian dish that captures the fresh, vibrant flavors of the season.

This recipe combines tender asparagus spears with perfectly cooked pasta, tossed in a light, garlicky olive oil sauce with a hint of lemon zest. It’s a simple yet elegant meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests at a casual gathering.

Whether you’re a vegetarian or simply looking to add more greens to your diet, this asparagus pasta recipe is incredibly versatile and packed with nutrients. The crisp asparagus pairs beautifully with the al dente pasta, and the subtle citrus notes brighten every bite.

Plus, it’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option for busy days.

Ready to bring fresh flavor and easy cooking together? Let’s dive into the details of this fabulous vegetarian asparagus pasta recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This asparagus pasta recipe is a winner for so many reasons:

• Quick & easy: From start to finish, it takes less than half an hour.
• Vegetarian-friendly: No meat or animal products, but still hearty and satisfying.
• Fresh and flavorful: The asparagus stays crisp and bright, complemented by garlic and lemon zest.
• Customizable: Add nuts, cheese, or even chili flakes to suit your taste.
• Nutritious: Asparagus is rich in vitamins and antioxidants, making this a healthy meal option.

Ingredients

• 8 oz pasta (penne, spaghetti, or fettuccine works well)
• 1 bunch fresh asparagus (about 1 lb), trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, zest and juice
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for vegetarians who eat cheese)
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped for garnish

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Colander or strainer
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Microplane or grater for lemon zest and cheese
• Citrus juicer (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Cook the asparagus: While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the asparagus pieces and sauté for 4-5 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Remove asparagus from the pan and set aside.
3. Sauté garlic: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant, but not browned.
4. Combine pasta and asparagus: Return the asparagus to the skillet. Add the drained pasta and toss well to combine all ingredients.
5. Add lemon and seasoning: Stir in the lemon zest and juice. If the pasta seems dry, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Finish with cheese and herbs: Remove from heat and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Toss gently and garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
7. Serve immediately: Plate your pasta and enjoy this fresh, vibrant meal!

Tips & Variations

Always save some pasta water! It helps bind the sauce to the pasta perfectly.

Use seasonal asparagus: Fresh, in-season asparagus will give you the best flavor and texture.

Make it vegan: Skip the Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative. Nutritional yeast sprinkled on top also adds a cheesy flavor.

Add protein: For extra protein, consider tossing in some cooked chickpeas or white beans.

Try different herbs: Swap parsley or basil for tarragon or thyme to change the flavor profile.

Boost crunch: Toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds make an excellent crunchy topping.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This asparagus pasta is perfect on its own or paired with a fresh salad. Consider serving alongside a crisp mixed greens salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette for a light meal.

For a heartier feast, complement this dish with a crusty bread like Green Chile Cheese Bread Recipe or a warm, comforting dessert like Grandma’S Old Fashioned Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce Recipe.

Pair with a chilled white wine or a sparkling water infused with lemon and mint for a refreshing finish.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just looking to enjoy a delicious, healthy meal, this asparagus pasta recipe ticks all the boxes. It’s fresh, flavorful, and simple to make, demonstrating that vegetarian cooking can be both satisfying and full of vibrant tastes.

The light lemon and garlic sauce enhances the natural sweetness of the asparagus while keeping the dish bright and fresh. Plus, the recipe is incredibly adaptable, so you can make it your own with various toppings and additions.

Next time you want a quick yet impressive meal, give this asparagus pasta a try. And if you love exploring vegetarian recipes, be sure to check out our Kosher Vegetarian Recipes for more flavorful ideas.

Happy cooking!

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