Asparagus Giovanni Recipe

Experience the taste of spring with this vibrant Asparagus Giovanni recipe, inspired by Giovanni's on Pearl in Ellensburg, Washington! This vegetarian entree features tender, thick asparagus spears (contrary to popular belief, thicker is often more tender!) from the Yakima Valley, sautéed with earthy mushrooms and fragrant herbs. Paired with perfectly cooked pasta and a touch of parmesan, it's a delightful dish that's both elegant and easy to make. Get ready to savor the fresh flavors of the Pacific Northwest!

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 30 mins
Calories 700.9 kcal
Protein 45g
Rating 5.0 (2 Reviews)
Asparagus Giovanni

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Asparagus Giovanni

  • Fettuccine
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 pound thick asparagus spears, trimmed
  • Sliced Mushrooms
  • Dry White Wine
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Garlic Cloves
  • Fennel Seed
  • Dried Red Pepper Flakes
  • Basil Leaves
  • Salt & Freshly Ground Black Pepper
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • Parmesan cheese, for serving

How to Make Asparagus Giovanni

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes, according to package directions.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the mushrooms and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Add the asparagus, garlic, fennel seeds, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  4. Pour in the white wine and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover partially, and cook until the asparagus is tender-crisp and most of the liquid has evaporated, about 8-10 minutes.
  5. Stir in the basil, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
  6. When the pasta is cooked, drain it well and return it to the pot.
  7. Add the butter to the hot pasta and toss to coat.
  8. Divide the pasta among warmed plates. Top with the asparagus mixture.
  9. Sprinkle generously with Parmesan cheese and serve immediately with crusty French bread and butter, if desired.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Want to unlock deeper, more complex flavors? Try toasting your whole spices before grinding them, or blooming ground spices in a little warm oil to enhance their aroma. Deglazing your pan with a bit of stock, wine, or even water after browning ingredients can capture those tasty caramelized bits, adding richness to your dish.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

31 g

Sugar

18g

Fat

40g

Carbs

29g