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in INSTANT POT DINNER RECIPES

Asparagus Pasta

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Asparagus Pasta is a delightful and vibrant dish that celebrates the freshness of asparagus, combined with fettuccine, garlic, and a hint of lemon. This pasta dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a sophisticated dinner. The flavors of fresh herbs, garlic, and Parmesan cheese blend beautifully with tender asparagus and pasta, making this dish both refreshing and satisfying. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and learn how to make Asparagus Pasta step-by-step.

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Ingredients

  • 1 lb. fettuccine
  • 1/4 – 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 small onion, quartered and sliced
  • 1 lb. fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1 1/2 inch pieces
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 – 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (to taste)
  • 1/3 cup grated fresh Parmesan cheese
  • 8-10 fresh basil leaves, torn
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 1-1 1/2 tablespoons lemon zest
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine

  1. Boil Pasta:
    • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
  2. Drain Pasta:
    • Drain the fettuccine and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

  1. Heat Olive Oil:
    • In a large skillet, heat 1/4 cup of the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Cook Onion:
    • Add the sliced onion and cook for about 4-5 minutes, or until it becomes translucent.
  3. Add Garlic and Asparagus:
    • Add the minced garlic and asparagus pieces to the skillet. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender but still crisp.
  4. Add Red Pepper Flakes:
    • Stir in the red pepper flakes and cook for another minute.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Vegetables

  1. Add Pasta to Skillet:
    • Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet with the vegetables. Toss to combine.
  2. Add Parmesan and Herbs:
    • Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, fresh basil leaves, and fresh thyme leaves. Toss to coat the pasta evenly.
  3. Adjust Consistency:
    • Add some of the reserved pasta cooking water, a little at a time, to help the sauce coat the pasta and to reach your desired consistency.

Step 4: Season and Serve

  1. Add Lemon Zest:
    • Stir in the lemon zest for a bright, fresh flavor.
  2. Season:
    • Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Toss to combine.
  3. Serve:
    • Serve the asparagus pasta hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves if desired.

Cooking Notes and Tips

  • Asparagus: Choose fresh, tender asparagus for the best flavor. Trim the woody ends before cutting into pieces.
  • Olive Oil: Adjust the amount of olive oil to your preference. You can start with 1/4 cup and add more if needed.
  • Pasta Water: The reserved pasta cooking water helps to create a silky sauce that coats the pasta. Use it as needed to adjust the consistency.

Variations

Creamy Asparagus Pasta

  • Add Cream:
    • Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream along with the Parmesan cheese for a creamy version.

Asparagus and Mushroom Pasta

  • Add Mushrooms:
    • Sauté 1 cup of sliced mushrooms along with the asparagus for added flavor and texture.

Lemon Asparagus Pasta

  • Add Lemon Juice:
    • Add the juice of one lemon along with the zest for a more pronounced lemon flavor.

Serving Suggestions

With Proteins

  • With Grilled Chicken:
    • Top with grilled chicken breast for a complete meal.
  • With Shrimp:
    • Add sautéed shrimp to the pasta for a seafood twist.

With Vegetables

  • With Spinach:
    • Stir in 2 cups of fresh spinach just before serving for added greens.
  • With Tomatoes:
    • Add halved cherry tomatoes for a burst of color and flavor.

With Bread

  • With Garlic Bread:
    • Serve with garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up the flavorful sauce.
  • With Dinner Rolls:
    • Pair with warm dinner rolls for a comforting addition.

Beverages

  • With White Wine:
    • Enjoy with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.
  • With Sparkling Water:
    • Serve with sparkling water or lemonade for a refreshing drink.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta? A: Yes, you can use any pasta you like such as spaghetti, linguine, or penne. Adjust the cooking time as needed.

Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Q: Can I make this dish gluten-free? A: Yes, use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.

Q: What if I don’t have fresh herbs? A: You can use dried herbs as a substitute. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried basil and 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme.

Q: Can I add cheese other than Parmesan? A: Yes, you can use Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese for a different flavor.

Asparagus Pasta is a light and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender asparagus, fresh herbs, and hint of lemon, this pasta dish is both refreshing and satisfying. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, Asparagus Pasta is easy to make and always delicious. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful pasta with your family and friends!