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Easy Asparagus Pesto Pasta Recipe

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4.3 from 47 reviews

This EASY Asparagus Pesto Pasta recipe is a fresh and vibrant dish perfect for spring and summer. Combining tender blanched asparagus with pistachios, lemon, parsley, and olive oil, this pasta features a creamy, flavorful pesto that’s both bright and nutty. Quick to prepare and full of wholesome ingredients, it’s a delightful way to enjoy seasonal vegetables with a simple cooking process.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Vegetables and Herbs

  • 1 lb asparagus
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (from 1 lemon)
  • ½ cup fresh parsley leaves

Nuts and Oils

  • ½ cup pistachio nuts (see note 1)
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Pantry and Others

  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 small garlic clove (optional)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste
  • 12 oz pasta of choice (farfalle, penne, spaghetti, rigatoni, linguine)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the asparagus: Bring a small pot of salted water to a boil. Chop the asparagus into small bits, removing and discarding fibrous ends as needed. Wash thoroughly, then blanch the asparagus pieces in the boiling water for about 5 minutes until slightly tender. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop further cooking. Set aside the asparagus tips for garnish.
  2. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.
  3. Make the asparagus pesto: In a blender or food processor, add the pistachios and blitz until finely ground. Add the blanched asparagus (excluding the tips), garlic, lemon juice, fresh parsley, olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Puree until smooth, adjusting seasoning to taste.
  4. Toss pasta with pesto: Once pasta is drained, return it to the pot or a large bowl. Add the asparagus pesto and gently toss to combine. Add reserved pasta cooking water a little at a time to achieve a silky, saucy consistency.
  5. Serve: Plate the pasta, garnish with reserved asparagus tips and sprinkle with lemon zest. Serve immediately while hot for the best flavor experience.

Notes

  • Note 1: Pistachios can be substituted with other nuts like pine nuts or walnuts if preferred.
  • Asparagus tips are reserved for garnishing to add texture and aesthetic appeal to the dish.
  • The garlic is optional and can be omitted for a milder pesto flavor.
  • Adjust the amount of lemon juice and zest depending on your preference for brightness.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Blending
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Find it online: https://allyumcooks.com/easy-asparagus-pesto-pasta-recipe/