Ready to whip up a delectable dish that combines the freshness of spring with the comforting flavors of a cozy home-cooked meal? Look no further than this Easy Pasta With Asparagus recipe. Bursting with color and flavor, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or relaxing weekends when you want something satisfying yet still light and refreshing.
**Easy Pasta With Asparagus**
**Ingredients:**
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 bunch of fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Juice of 1 lemon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Red pepper flakes (optional, for an extra kick)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Asparagus:**
– Wash the asparagus under cold water and trim off the tough ends. Cut the spears into 2-inch pieces, discarding the woody ends.
2. **Cook the Pasta:**
– In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
3. **Sauté the Garlic and Asparagus:**
– In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the asparagus pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the asparagus is tender but still slightly crisp.
4. **Combine the Pasta and Asparagus:**
– Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the asparagus. Toss everything together, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water to help create a light sauce that coats the pasta evenly.
5. **Finish the Dish:**
– Squeeze the lemon juice over the pasta and asparagus, then sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Toss well to combine all the flavors. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
6. **Serve and Enjoy:**
– Serve the Easy Pasta With Asparagus in bowls, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired. Pair it with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal that celebrates the flavors of the season.
Cheers to a simple yet satisfying pasta dish that brings the best of spring to your table in no time. Healthy, flavorful, and bursting with freshness, this Easy Pasta With Asparagus recipe is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Enjoy the process of cooking and savor every bite of this delightful dish with your loved ones. Happy cooking!
