When it comes to springtime cooking, few ingredients are more iconic than asparagus. The tender shoots of green are a staple at many a dinner table, and for good reason – they’re delicious! But what’s even better than just serving asparagus on its own? Turning it into a creamy, dreamy pasta dish, of course. In this article, we’ll be counting down our top 20 favorite creamy asparagus pasta recipes that are sure to delight your taste buds. From classic combinations like lemon and garlic to more adventurous pairings like mushrooms and pancetta, there’s something for everyone on this list. So grab a fork and get ready to indulge in the rich flavors of spring – after all, asparagus season is the perfect excuse to get creative in the kitchen!
Lemon Garlic Asparagus Pasta
Brighten up your pasta dish with the zesty flavors of lemon and garlic, paired with tender asparagus spears.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or fettuccine)
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp. unsalted butter
– 2 tbsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add asparagus to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
4. Remove the asparagus from the skillet with a slotted spoon. Leave the garlic butter sauce behind.
5. Add lemon juice to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits. Stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, and the lemon-garlic sauce. Toss until well coated.
7. Return asparagus to the pasta and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Parmesan Asparagus Pasta
A rich and satisfying pasta dish that combines the flavors of asparagus, parmesan cheese, and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., fettuccine or spaghetti)
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add asparagus to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes until tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine heavy cream and parmesan cheese. Heat over low heat, whisking constantly, until smooth and creamy.
5. Combine cooked pasta, asparagus mixture, and creamy sauce in the skillet. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water if needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Asparagus and Mushroom Pasta Alfredo
A classic comfort food dish gets a boost from the earthy flavors of asparagus and mushrooms, all wrapped up in a creamy alfredo sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (fettuccine or linguine work well)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add asparagus to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until slightly tender.
4. Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually stir in heavy cream, bringing mixture to a simmer.
6. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Combine cooked pasta, asparagus-mushroom mixture, and alfredo sauce. Toss until well coated.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Asparagus Pasta with Pine Nuts
Roasted Asparagus Pasta with Pine Nuts Recipe
Summary:
Elevate your pasta game with this simple yet flavorful recipe, featuring roasted asparagus and crunchy pine nuts.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz. pasta of choice (e.g., spaghetti or linguine)
– 1 lb. fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss asparagus with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
4. In a large skillet, combine roasted asparagus, toasted pine nuts, and reserved pasta water. Toss over medium heat until the sauce coats the asparagus and pine nuts.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the asparagus mixture.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley (if using) on top. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Asparagus Carbonara with Pancetta
Asparagus Carbonara with Pancetta Recipe
In this recipe, we’ll combine the classic Italian carbonara dish with the added sweetness of asparagus and the richness of pancetta.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 oz asparagus, trimmed
– 4 slices pancetta, diced
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add asparagus to the same skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until tender. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Add cooked spaghetti, pancetta, and asparagus to the bowl. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water if needed to achieve a creamy consistency.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pot Asparagus Pasta Primavera
This spring-inspired pasta dish combines the flavors of asparagus, lemon, and garlic for a light and refreshing meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pasta (such as bowtie or penne)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add asparagus, chicken broth, white wine (if using), and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let sauce simmer while pasta cooks.
6. Combine cooked pasta with asparagus mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Asparagus Pasta Arrabbiata
This recipe combines the bright flavors of asparagus and garlic with a spicy kick from crushed red peppers, all tossed with al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) spaghetti
– 1 lb (450g) fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp (30ml) olive oil
– 1/4 cup (60ml) crushed red peppers
– 1 tsp (5ml) salt
– 1/4 tsp (1.25ml) black pepper
– 1/4 cup (60g) grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta cooking water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender. Add garlic and crushed red peppers; cook for an additional minute.
3. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing with asparagus mixture and reserved pasta cooking water. Season with salt and black pepper.
4. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Asparagus and Pea Pasta with Mint
This light and refreshing pasta dish is perfect for a spring evening. With the sweetness of asparagus and peas, the brightness of mint, and the creaminess of parmesan cheese, this recipe is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb. fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1 cup fresh peas (frozen or canned work too)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender. Add peas and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add garlic and mint to the skillet, cooking for 30 seconds.
4. Combine cooked pasta, asparagus mixture, and reserved pasta water in a large bowl. Toss with parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with extra mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Asparagus Pasta with Gruyère
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of asparagus with the savory flavor of Gruyère cheese, all wrapped up in a comforting baked pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1 lb. fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add garlic and asparagus to the skillet; cook for an additional 5 minutes or until asparagus is tender.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, asparagus mixture, and Gruyère cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Asparagus Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This recipe combines the flavors of spring asparagus and sun-dried tomatoes with a rich and creamy pesto sauce, all tossed with al dente pasta. A perfect dish for a warm evening.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine)
– 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup freshly made pesto sauce (see below for recipe)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Pesto Sauce:
– 1/3 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/2 cup pine nuts
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions.
2. Meanwhile, sauté asparagus in a pan with a little olive oil until tender.
3. Add sun-dried tomatoes and pesto sauce to the asparagus and stir to combine.
4. Toss cooked pasta with the asparagus mixture and top with Parmesan cheese.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Asparagus Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of asparagus with the richness of garlic butter.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, fettuccine)
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
3. Add asparagus to the skillet and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine remaining 2 tablespoons butter and Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth and heated through.
5. Combine cooked pasta, garlic-asparagus mixture, and butter-Parmesan sauce. Toss until well combined, adding reserved pasta water if needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Asparagus and Shrimp Scampi Pasta
A flavorful and quick-cooking pasta dish that combines the sweetness of asparagus, succulence of shrimp, and savory garlic butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. linguine pasta
– 1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp. unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
2. In a separate skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until pink and cooked through.
4. Add asparagus to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until tender.
5. Remove from heat and stir in white wine (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked pasta, shrimp mixture, and toss gently to combine.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Whole Wheat Asparagus Pasta with Walnuts
Discover the delightful combination of whole wheat pasta, tender asparagus, and crunchy walnuts in this simple yet flavorful recipe.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz whole wheat spaghetti
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the asparagus to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes or until tender. Season with salt and pepper.
4. In a large serving bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, asparagus mixture, and chopped walnuts. Toss to combine, adding some reserved pasta water if needed.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoked Salmon and Asparagus Pasta
Smoked Salmon and Asparagus Pasta Recipe
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Experience the combination of smoky salmon, tender asparagus, and al dente pasta in this quick and delicious recipe.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or linguine)
– 1/2 cup smoked salmon, flaked
– 1 lb. fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender. Season with salt, pepper, and minced garlic.
3. In the same skillet, add flaked smoked salmon. Cook for 1 minute, stirring occasionally.
4. Combine cooked pasta, asparagus mixture, and reserved pasta water in a large serving bowl. Toss to coat.
5. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Asparagus and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Discover a delightful twist on classic stuffed shells with the added freshness of asparagus and creamy ricotta.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 8 ounces ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add asparagus and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked asparagus, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Stuff each pasta shell with the asparagus-ricotta mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
7. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until shells are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Truffle Oil Asparagus Pasta
A decadent yet simple pasta dish that combines the earthy flavor of truffle oil with the sweetness of asparagus.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 1 lb. fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tbsp. truffle oil
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender but still crisp. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Add truffle oil to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Toss cooked pasta with asparagus mixture, adding some reserved pasta water if needed to create a creamy sauce.
5. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Asparagus and Chicken Pasta in White Wine Sauce
This recipe combines the flavors of tender chicken, fresh asparagus, and a rich white wine sauce, all wrapped up in a deliciously creamy pasta dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. fettuccine
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp. dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, asparagus, and garlic in white wine until cooked through.
3. Add heavy cream and thyme to the skillet, stirring to combine.
4. Reduce heat and simmer sauce for 5-7 minutes or until thickened slightly.
5. Combine cooked fettuccine and sauce; season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Asparagus Pasta Salad
A vibrant and flavorful salad perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, featuring the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes and the crunch of asparagus.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bow-tie or penne)
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange asparagus in a single layer; drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, roasted asparagus, and feta cheese (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with chopped parsley (if desired) and serve.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Asparagus and Bacon Pasta Bake
Asparagus and Bacon Pasta Bake Recipe
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this mouth-watering pasta bake that combines the tender sweetness of asparagus, the savory smokiness of bacon, and the comfort of creamy pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (e.g., penne or fusilli)
– 2 cups mixed veggies (asparagus, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes)
– 4 slices cooked bacon, diced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain, set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, mixed veggies, diced bacon, Parmesan cheese, and cream. Mix well.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. If desired, sprinkle chopped parsley on top for added color and flavor.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Serves: 4
Vegan Asparagus Pasta with Cashew Cream
Vegan Asparagus Pasta with Cashew Cream
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of spring with this vibrant vegan pasta dish, featuring tender asparagus and a rich cashew cream sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. vegan pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1/2 cup raw cashews
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine cashews, water, lemon juice, and garlic powder. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. In a large skillet, sauté the asparagus in a little water or oil over medium heat until tender and slightly caramelized.
4. Combine cooked pasta, cashew cream sauce, and asparagus in a serving bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these 20 creamy asparagus pasta recipes! From classic combinations like Lemon Garlic Asparagus Pasta and Creamy Parmesan Asparagus Pasta, to unique twists like Roasted Asparagus Pasta with Pine Nuts and Truffle Oil Asparagus Pasta. Whether you’re a fan of rich and creamy sauces or light and fresh flavors, there’s something for everyone in this collection of mouth-watering pasta dishes.
