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–+ servings
Lemon Asparagus Pasta

Lemon Asparagus Pasta: A Creamy Burst of Spring Flavor

This Lemon Asparagus Pasta combines vibrant flavors with a creamy sauce, making it the perfect quick weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta and Veggies
  • 8 ounces Penne Pasta Can substitute with fusilli or rigatoni.
  • 1 bunch Asparagus Trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces.
  • 1 cup Frozen Peas Fresh peas can be used when in season.
For the Creamy Sauce
  • 3 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Can use olive oil as a lighter alternative.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Half-and-half is a lighter option.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest Use fresh zest for the best flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Freshly squeezed for optimal taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Convenient for easy flavor.
For Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Freshly ground pepper recommended.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Optional for a spicy kick.
To Finish the Dish
  • 1 cup Pasta Water Reserve some before draining the pasta.
  • 1/2 cup Shredded Parmesan Cheese For garnishing the dish.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • large skillet
  • Measuring Cups
  • Measuring Spoons
  • Colander

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook according to package instructions for 7-9 minutes until al dente.
  2. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add asparagus and frozen peas. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and then drain the rest.
  3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add lemon zest, lemon juice, heavy cream, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper. Simmer for 3 minutes.
  4. Mix in the drained pasta and vegetables with the sauce, adding reserved pasta water gradually to reach the desired consistency.
  5. Serve immediately, garnishing with shredded Parmesan cheese.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 12gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This dish should be served fresh for best flavor. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.

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