Asparagus Pesto Pasta Recipe

This vibrant Asparagus Pesto Pasta recipe is quick, easy, and bursting with fresh flavor! Inspired by a market find, this recipe elevates simple asparagus into a creamy, nutty pesto sauce perfect for a weeknight dinner. Enjoy it over your favorite pasta – we love brown rice penne! Get ready to impress yourself and your taste buds!

Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 30 mins
Calories 398.9 kcal
Protein 26g
Rating 4.3 (3 Reviews)
Asparagus Pesto Pasta

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Asparagus Pesto Pasta

  • Fresh Asparagus
  • Fresh Basil Leaves
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Garlic Clove
  • ½ cup pecans
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • Spaghetti

How to Make Asparagus Pesto Pasta

  1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Reserve 1 tablespoon of pasta water before draining.
  2. While the pasta cooks, prepare the pesto: Combine 1 pound asparagus (trimmed and roughly chopped), 1 cup packed fresh basil leaves, ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, 2 cloves garlic, ½ cup pecans (roughly chopped), and 2 tablespoons olive oil in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth, adding a tablespoon or two of pasta water if needed to reach desired consistency.
  3. Drain the pasta and toss with 1 tablespoon olive oil.
  4. Add the asparagus pesto to the pasta and toss to coat evenly.
  5. Serve immediately and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and/or fresh basil, 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

4 g

Sugar

16g

Fat

15g

Carbs

16g