Asparagus Pasta

This asparagus pasta features a rich buttery garlic and shallot sauce with lemon overtop bowtie pasta and tender-crisp asparagus.

Why this recipe works

This asparagus pasta recipe has a refreshing lemon twist amongst a bed of buttery garlic pasta and fresh asparagus. It’s easy enough to make in less than 30 minutes but fancy enough for entertaining guests.

Garnish with extra lemon zest, red pepper flakes, and parmesan cheese for even further flavor and you have yourself an impressive pasta dish requiring minimal effort. It’s one of our favorite ways to use up a bounty of asparagus! Use any leftovers to make prosciutto wrapped asparagus as a starter.

Ingredients you will need

Get all measurements, ingredients, and instructions in the printable version at the end of this post.

Ingredient Info and Substitution Suggestions

PASTA – We used bowtie pasta, but you can use any type of pasta you like. Penne, Mostaccioli, angel hair, and spaghetti noodles are all great options.

WHITE WINE – Using wine in this recipe adds richness. Chicken or vegetable broth can be used in its place if desired.

LEMON – Fresh is best when it comes to lemon juice, skip the pre-bottled stuff for this recipe. Plus, you will need a fresh lemon to incorporate the zest.

How to Make Asparagus Pasta

These step by step photos and instructions are here to help you visualize how to make this recipe. You can Jump to Recipe to get the printable version of this recipe, complete with measurements and instructions at the bottom.

1. Cut woody ends off the asparagus spears then cut spears in half. Set aside.
2. Cook pasta al dente then drain under cold water to stop the cooking process.
   
   CHEF’S TIP – Pasta can then be kept submerged in clean cold water or drained and tossed with olive oil. Either method will keep pasta from drying out and/or sticking together.
   
   
3. Melt butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add garlic and shallots and cook for 1-2 minutes until softened.
5. Pour in white wine and half of lemon zest. Stir to combine.
6. Bring to a gentle boil then add asparagus. Toss to coat and season to taste with garlic salt.
7. While the sauce and asparagus continue to cook, make a slurry from the cornstarch and water. Add slurry to the skillet and continue cooking until the sauce begins to thicken.
8. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat.
9. Add lemon juice, more garlic salt (to taste), and remaining lemon zest. Toss to coat and heat through.

Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips

You can optionally add cooked bacon, prosciutto, chicken, bacon, shrimp, or sausage as a protein to beef up this pasta dish. We definitely recommend incorporating the optional garnishes (lemon zest, red pepper flakes, and parmesan cheese) which adds even more flavor.

Store leftovers in an air-tight container kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over medium-low heat until warmed through. Optionally add a splash of water when reheating to remoisten.

Serving Suggestions

Serve asparagus pasta with an optional garnish of lemon zest, red pepper flakes, and grated parmesan cheese. Pair with crusty bread or garlic bread on the side along with a fresh dinner salad. Enjoy warm.

More Pasta Recipes

• Pasta Primavera
• Mushroom Ravioli
• Buffalo Chicken Casserole
• Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara
• Spinach Fettuccine
• Broccoli Pasta

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