Delight in the fresh flavors of spring with this vibrant Spring Asparagus Angel Hair Pasta recipe, a perfect blend of simplicity and sophistication. Tender angel hair pasta is tossed with crisp-tender asparagus, fragrant garlic, and a zesty burst of lemon, creating a light yet satisfying dish thatβs ready in just 30 minutes. A touch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick, while a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese melts into a luscious sauce, enhanced by a splash of reserved pasta water for the perfect texture. Finished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, this dish is the ultimate way to showcase spring asparagus. Ideal for weeknight dinners or an elegant seasonal meal, this pasta recipe is a celebration of fresh, bright ingredients you'll want to savor all year long.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook according to package instructions (typically 4-5 minutes) until al dente. Reserve 0.5 cup of pasta water before draining and set the pasta aside.
While the pasta cooks, trim the woody ends of the asparagus and cut the stalks into 2-inch pieces.
Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic cloves and saute for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Add the asparagus to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes tender but still crisp.
Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes, and cook for an additional 1 minute.
Lower the heat and add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the asparagus mixture. Gradually add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, to loosen the sauce and coat the pasta evenly.
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and toss until everything is evenly distributed.
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Serve hot with extra Parmesan cheese on the side if desired.
Calories |
1214 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 46.2 g | 59% | |
| Saturated Fat | 6.5 g | 32% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1185 mg | 52% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 176.3 g | 64% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 12.6 g | 45% | |
| Total Sugars | 8.9 g | ||
| Protein | 29.1 g | 58% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 59 mg | 5% | |
| Iron | 8.6 mg | 48% | |
| Potassium | 78 mg | 2% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.