Asparagus Pasta With Whipped Ricotta

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This asparagus pasta recipe is quick, easy, and packed with fresh flavors that will make it a new favorite. You’ll love how simple it is to whip up a delicious meal that feels fancy but takes minimal effort.

• Bright, fresh flavors – The asparagus adds a crisp, vibrant taste that pairs perfectly with the creamy pasta.
• Ready in under 30 minutes – Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something tasty without the fuss.
• Customizable – Toss in extra veggies, protein, or herbs to make it your own!

Recipe

Asparagus pasta is a light and flavorful dish that combines tender asparagus with al dente pasta, perfect for a quick and healthy meal. Fresh ingredients and simple preparation make this recipe a favorite for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz pasta (such as linguine or fettuccine)
• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp. Season with salt and black pepper.
4. Toss in the drained pasta, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese and lemon juice. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes:

• For extra protein, add grilled chicken or shrimp.
• Substitute gluten-free pasta if needed.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Serving: 4

Calories: ~350 per serving

Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

This asparagus pasta recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:

What To Serve With It

I love serving my asparagus pasta with simple, fresh sides like a crisp green salad or garlic bread—it keeps the meal light but satisfying. If you’re feeling fancy, a glass of chilled white wine, like Pinot Grigio, pairs perfectly with the dish’s bright flavors. Let’s talk about the best options to round out your meal!

Complementary Side Dishes

When I’m planning a meal, I always think about how the sides can make the main dish shine even brighter. For this asparagus pasta, I like to ponder asparagus alternatives, like roasted broccoli or sautéed green beans, to keep the meal fresh and vibrant. Pasta pairings are also key—I’ll often add a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette for a peppery bite or garlic bread for a comforting crunch. A side of marinated artichokes or a charcuterie board with cured meats and cheeses can add variety. These sides balance the creamy ricotta and let the pasta take center stage.

Wine Pairing Options

How can you make your asparagus pasta meal even more special? Pair it with the perfect wine! I love serving this dish with a crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. Their bright, citrusy notes complement the asparagus and ricotta beautifully. If you’re more of a red wine fan, go for a light-bodied option, such as Pinot Noir. Its subtle earthiness pairs well without overpowering the dish. I’ve found that a chilled glass of white wine works best, especially on a warm evening. Trust me, the right wine can turn a simple pasta dinner into something truly memorable. Cheers!