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Italian Asparagus Pasta Recipe from Northern Italy

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  • Author: Sarra
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Pasta
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian, Northern Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Italian Asparagus Pasta is a simple, fresh, and vibrant dish that celebrates the best of Northern Italy’s spring produce. Tender asparagus, al dente pasta, and a light lemony sauce create a bright, satisfying meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for a fresh weeknight dinner or an elegant lunch! (Keywords: Asparagus Pasta, Northern Italy pasta recipe, Italian spring pasta)


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 400g (14 oz) spaghetti or fettuccine
  • 300g (10 oz) fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lemon (zest and juice)
  • 50g (1/2 cup) grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat
  • Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions.
  • During the last 2-3 minutes of pasta cooking, add the asparagus to the boiling water with the pasta.
  • Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and asparagus.
  • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant (do not burn).
  • Add the pasta and asparagus to the skillet. Toss to coat.
  • Add lemon zest, lemon juice, and a splash of pasta water to create a light sauce.
  • Stir in the grated Parmigiano-Reggiano and season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  • Garnish with fresh herbs and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use thin asparagus spears for quicker cooking and a tender bite.
  • Add a handful of toasted pine nuts for extra texture and flavor.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 480
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 320mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 62g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 16g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg