Go Back
For this colorful dish, you need a few key items: - 8 oz pasta (fettuccine or any preferred type) - 2 cups fresh spinach, washed and roughly chopped - 1 cup asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon lemon zest - 1 tablespoon lemon juice - 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) - Salt and pepper, to taste - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving) - A handful of pine nuts, toasted

Pasta with Spinach and Asparagus

Get ready to savor a delicious and vibrant Pasta with Spinach and Asparagus that's perfect for any meal! This quick and easy recipe combines wholesome ingredients like fresh spinach, crunchy asparagus, and a zesty touch of lemon for extraordinary flavor. Whether you’re a novice or a pro in the kitchen, this dish will impress. Click through to discover the full recipe and tips to make your dinner exciting and colorful!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

8 oz pasta (fettuccine or any preferred type)

2 cups fresh spinach, washed and roughly chopped

1 cup asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon lemon zest

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and pepper, to taste

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)

A handful of pine nuts, toasted

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

    Blanch the Asparagus: In the same pot of boiling water, add the asparagus pieces and blanch for about 2-3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Remove and immediately transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain and set aside.

      Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

        Combine Ingredients: Add the chopped spinach and blanched asparagus to the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted.

          Mix in Pasta and Flavorings: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with the lemon zest, lemon juice, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until you achieve your desired sauce consistency.

            Finish with Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully combined and the cheese begins to melt. Adjust seasoning if needed.

              Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish each serving with toasted pine nuts and additional Parmesan cheese on top, if desired.

                Prep Time: 10 mins | Total Time: 25 mins | Servings: 4

                  - Presentation Tips: Serve the pasta in shallow bowls, drizzling a little extra olive oil on top for shine, and placing a lemon wedge on the side for a fresh burst of citrus aroma.