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Asparagus Pasta With Pesto Recipe

This vibrant Asparagus Pasta with Creamy Pesto recipe is a quick and easy weeknight meal bursting with fresh flavors! Tender asparagus spears tossed with perfectly cooked pasta and a luscious homemade pesto create a delightful culinary experience. Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a light and satisfying lunch.

Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 30 mins
Calories 143.3 kcal
Protein 3g
Rating 5.0 (1 Reviews)
Asparagus Pasta With Pesto

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Asparagus Pasta With Pesto

  • Pasta Noodles
  • Asparagus
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil + 1/2 cup for pesto
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • Fresh Basil
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (to taste)

How to Make Asparagus Pasta With Pesto

  1. Prepare the pesto: Combine 2 cups fresh basil leaves, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup pine nuts, 2 cloves garlic, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil in a food processor. Pulse until smooth.
  2. Sauté 2 cloves garlic, minced, and 1/2 cup chopped onion in 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until lightly browned (about 3-5 minutes). Do not overcook.
  3. Set the sautéed garlic and onion aside and keep warm.
  4. Cook 1 pound pasta (your choice) according to package directions. Add 1-2 cups of additional water just before the water comes to a boil to ensure the vegetables cook properly. Add 1 bunch (about 1 pound) asparagus, trimmed, during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking time.
  5. Drain the pasta and asparagus, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
  6. Add the drained pasta and asparagus to the skillet with the sautéed garlic and onion. Stir in the pesto and 1-2 tablespoons of the reserved pasta water to create a creamy sauce. Add more pasta water if needed for desired consistency.
  7. Toss to coat the pasta evenly with the pesto. Top with extra Parmesan cheese (optional).
  8. Serve immediately with crusty French bread. Enjoy!

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Elevate your dish with simple flavor boosters! A final flourish of freshly chopped herbs can add incredible brightness, while a squeeze of lemon or lime juice right before serving can awaken all the flavors. Don't underestimate a sprinkle of quality finishing salt or a drizzle of good olive oil to make your creation shine.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

0 g

Sugar

3g

Fat

9g

Carbs

1g

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