Description
Asparagus Pesto Pasta combines tender asparagus, vibrant basil pesto, and perfectly cooked pasta for a fresh and flavorful meal. This simple and quick dish highlights seasonal ingredients and can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal vegetarian dinner option.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta of choice
- 1 lb asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup basil pesto
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente.
- Add asparagus: In the last 3 minutes of the pasta cooking time, add the trimmed asparagus pieces to the boiling pasta water so they cook slightly but remain crisp.
- Reserve pasta water and drain: Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water, then drain the pasta and asparagus together using a colander.
- Combine ingredients: Return the drained pasta and asparagus to the pot. Add the basil pesto, olive oil, lemon juice, and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Toss and adjust sauce: Toss everything gently to combine, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches a smooth, silky consistency that coats the pasta evenly.
- Season and serve: Taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- Penne, fusilli, or farfalle pasta shapes work especially well for this recipe.
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein to make it a more substantial meal.
- For the freshest flavor, use homemade basil pesto if possible.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
