Fresh, fast, and full of flavor, this lemon asparagus pasta brings sunshine to your plate. Serve it with a crisp white wine and you're instantly in springtime mode—no matter the weather. It's elegant enough for entertaining but simple enough for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients (for 4 servings):
8 oz fettuccine
1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp butter
3 garlic cloves, minced
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
1/2 cup grated Parmesan, plus more for serving
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional: red pepper flakes or chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add fettuccine and cook according to package directions. Add asparagus during the last 2 min. of cooking. Drain and reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 min.
Add the cooked pasta and asparagus to the skillet. Pour in lemon juice and zest, sprinkle with Parmesan, and toss to coat. Add a splash of pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Taste and season with salt and pepper. Garnish with extra Parmesan, red pepper flakes, or parsley if desired.