Asparagus Lemon Pasta (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Main Ingredients
01 -
4 minced garlic cloves
02 -
12 oz (340g) of penne pasta
03 -
1 lemon, zested and juiced
04 -
1 bunch of asparagus, chopped into small pieces and tough ends removed
05 -
2 tbsp olive oil
06 -
Salt, as needed
07 -
Black pepper, as needed
→ Optional Toppings
08 -
Red chili flakes
09 -
Shredded Parmesan cheese
# Instructions:
01 -
Boil a big pot of water with some salt in it. Cook the penne pasta just until it’s tender but still firm (al dente), going by the package time. Keep 1 cup of the starchy cooking water before draining it all in a colander.
02 -
While the pasta is on the stove, warm olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Toss in the garlic and cook for about 60 seconds until you smell it. Throw in the asparagus pieces next and stir, letting them cook for 5-7 minutes so they stay a little firm but are still soft.
03 -
Turn the heat to low, then stir the drained pasta into the skillet. Add in the lemon zest and lemon juice, giving it all a good toss. Splash in some pasta water as needed until the sauce coats everything nicely.
04 -
Add salt and black pepper to suit your taste. For more flavor, sprinkle Parmesan and some red chili flakes on top just before serving.
# Notes:
01 -
Feel free to add your favorite protein to make this meal fit your diet.