Are you looking for a delicious and easy-to-make pasta dish that incorporates the fresh flavors of spring? Look no further! Asparagus is one of the most versatile vegetables, and when paired with rich and creamy sauces, it’s a match made in heaven. In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 mouth-watering recipes that combine the tender taste of asparagus with the comforting warmth of pasta.
From classic combinations like lemon garlic and parmesan to more adventurous pairings featuring mushrooms, pine nuts, and even truffle oil, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re a busy home cook or a culinary enthusiast, these creamy asparagus pasta recipes are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Read on to discover the perfect dish to add some springtime flavor to your meals.
Lemon Garlic Asparagus Pasta
Brighten up your pasta night with this vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of asparagus, the zestiness of lemon, and the richness of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or linguine)
– 1 lb. fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp. unsalted butter
– 2 tbsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then reserve.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add asparagus to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and asparagus mixture. Toss to combine.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Parmesan Asparagus Pasta
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines the tender sweetness of asparagus with the richness of parmesan cheese, all wrapped up in a comforting bowl of pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender, stirring occasionally.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and asparagus mixture. If necessary, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Asparagus and Mushroom Pasta
This recipe combines the freshness of asparagus with the earthy flavor of mushrooms, all wrapped up in a delicious pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g. spaghetti or linguine)
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (e.g. cremini, shiitake, button), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add asparagus to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
4. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Combine cooked pasta, mushroom-asparagus mixture, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pot Asparagus Pasta Primavera
A vibrant and flavorful spring-inspired pasta dish, packed with asparagus, cherry tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bow tie or penne)
– 2 cups fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp. dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the asparagus, cherry tomatoes, white wine (if using), chicken broth, and basil. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Simmer for 8-10 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the skillet. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well coated.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Roasted Asparagus Pasta with Pine Nuts
Roasted Asparagus Pasta with Pine Nuts Recipe
A springtime twist on classic pasta, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of asparagus with the nutty flavor of pine nuts.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine)
– 1 lb. fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup pine nuts
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast asparagus in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
4. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. In a large skillet, combine garlic, pine nuts, and a pinch of salt. Toast over medium heat for 2-3 minutes or until fragrant.
6. Combine cooked pasta, roasted asparagus, and toasted pine nut mixture in a serving bowl.
7. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Asparagus Pesto Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this vibrant spring-inspired dish featuring fresh asparagus, rich pesto, and al dente spaghetti.
Ingredients:
• 8 oz. spaghetti
• 1 lb. fresh asparagus, trimmed
• 1/2 cup pesto sauce
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Extra virgin olive oil for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente, then reserve.
2. In a separate skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add asparagus and cook for 3-5 minutes or until tender. Season with salt and pepper.
3. In a large serving bowl, combine cooked spaghetti, pesto sauce, and Parmesan cheese. Toss to combine, ensuring the pasta is well coated.
4. Add cooked asparagus to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bacon and Asparagus Carbonara
Bacon and Asparagus Carbonara: A Twist on the Classic Italian Dish
This recipe combines the smoky goodness of bacon with the tender sweetness of asparagus, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy carbonara sauce.
Ingredients:
– 6 oz spaghetti
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 3 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium-high heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the trimmed asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, Parmesan cheese, and reserved pasta water.
5. Add the cooked spaghetti to the bowl and toss until well coated with the egg mixture.
6. Stir in the crispy bacon and asparagus. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Asparagus Pasta
A creamy and flavorful pasta dish that combines the sweetness of asparagus with the richness of garlic butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add asparagus to the skillet and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until tender but still crisp. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, Parmesan cheese, and reserved pasta water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, whisking constantly, until smooth and creamy.
5. Combine cooked pasta, asparagus, and garlic butter sauce in a large serving dish. Toss to coat and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Asparagus and Pea Pasta with Mint
This light and refreshing pasta dish is perfect for spring. The combination of tender asparagus, sweet peas, and fragrant mint creates a delightful harmony of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender.
3. Add peas to the pan and stir to combine. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Toss cooked pasta with asparagus and pea mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Stir in chopped mint leaves.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Asparagus Pasta Arrabbiata
Elevate your pasta game with this vibrant and flavorful Spicy Asparagus Pasta Arrabbiata! This Italian-inspired dish combines tender asparagus, spicy garlic sauce, and al dente pasta for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup garlic-infused olive oil
– 1/2 cup canned crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender.
3. In a blender, combine garlic, garlic-infused olive oil, crushed tomatoes, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.
4. Toss cooked spaghetti with the spicy tomato sauce. Add cooked asparagus and toss to combine.
5. Serve immediately, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Asparagus Pasta
A vibrant and flavorful pasta dish that combines the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes with the earthy taste of asparagus.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine)
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 lb. fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the asparagus to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes until tender but still crisp. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet and stir to combine with the asparagus. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Combine the cooked pasta, asparagus mixture, and reserved pasta water in a large serving bowl. Toss to combine, adding more pasta water if needed to achieve desired consistency.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Asparagus and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
A creative twist on the classic stuffed shells recipe, this dish combines the tender taste of asparagus with the creamy richness of ricotta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add asparagus and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked asparagus, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well to combine.
5. Stuff each pasta shell with the asparagus-ricotta mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
7. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Lemon Ricotta Asparagus Pasta
This light and creamy pasta dish combines the sweetness of asparagus with the tanginess of lemon and the richness of ricotta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as linguine or fettuccine)
– 1 lb. fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together ricotta cheese and lemon juice until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet with asparagus. Toss to combine, adding some reserved pasta water if needed.
5. Add the ricotta mixture to the pasta and toss to coat.
6. Serve immediately, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Asparagus and Shrimp Scampi Pasta
This recipe combines succulent shrimp with tender asparagus and a zesty scampi sauce, all wrapped up in a bed of al dente pasta. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups fresh asparagus spears, trimmed
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining 2 tablespoons butter. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add asparagus and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add white wine (if using), chicken broth, and lemon juice to the skillet. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
5. Combine cooked pasta, shrimp, and scampi sauce in a large serving dish. Toss everything together, adding some reserved pasta water if needed to achieve desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Asparagus Pasta Alfredo
A creamy and flavorful twist on classic fettuccine Alfredo, this recipe adds the sweetness of baked asparagus for a delightful combination.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz fettuccine pasta
– 2 cups asparagus spears
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Toss asparagus spears with butter, garlic, salt, and pepper on the prepared baking sheet.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until tender.
4. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
6. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
7. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
8. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
9. Combine cooked fettuccine pasta and asparagus with the Alfredo sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Grilled Asparagus and Chicken Pasta
This recipe combines the flavors of grilled asparagus, juicy chicken, and creamy pasta for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
- 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, linguine)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper; cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Let rest before slicing.
3. Grill asparagus for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender.
4. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
5. In a large skillet, combine olive oil, garlic, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
6. Add sliced chicken and cooked asparagus to the skillet; stir to combine.
7. Combine cooked pasta with the chicken-asparagus mixture; toss to coat.
8. Top with Parmesan cheese; season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Asparagus and Goat Cheese Pasta
A springtime classic gets a creamy twist with the addition of goat cheese. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup goat cheese crumbles
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add asparagus to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
4. Stir in goat cheese crumbles and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta, asparagus mixture, and chopped parsley (if using). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
White Wine Asparagus Linguine
A light and refreshing springtime pasta dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz linguine pasta
– 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add asparagus to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes, until tender but still crisp.
4. Pour in white wine and stir to deglaze the pan. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Drain cooked linguine and add it to the skillet with asparagus. Toss to combine, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Asparagus and Sausage Penne
Asparagus and Sausage Penne Recipe
A flavorful and satisfying pasta dish that combines the tender taste of asparagus with the savory goodness of sausage.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cups fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add sausage; cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Remove sausage from skillet; set aside. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add asparagus to skillet; cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 5-6 minutes.
6. Combine cooked pasta, sausage mixture, and Parmesan cheese in a large serving bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Truffle Oil Asparagus Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this decadent Truffle Oil Asparagus Pasta recipe, featuring the rich flavors of truffles and asparagus.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons truffle oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate pan, heat truffle oil over medium-low heat. Add asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender.
3. Combine cooked pasta, asparagus, and Parmesan cheese in a serving dish. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the creamy and delicious world of asparagus pasta! This collection of 20 mouth-watering recipes showcases the versatility of this beloved vegetable. From classic combinations like Lemon Garlic Asparagus Pasta and Creamy Parmesan Asparagus Pasta, to innovative twists like Bacon and Asparagus Carbonara and Truffle Oil Asparagus Pasta, there’s something for every taste and preference. Whether you’re a pasta aficionado or just looking for new inspiration, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you craving more!
Leave a Reply