Looking for a quick and delicious meal that’s both satisfying and packed with flavor? Look no further than this vibrant Asparagus Pasta Stir Fry! In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a delightful Italian-inspired dish that brings together tender asparagus, perfectly cooked pasta, and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for a creamy finish. Whether you’re a busy professional or a home cook looking for something new, this recipe is sure to impress. Dive into the details and discover how easy it is to create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine)
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- While pasta is cooking, prepare the asparagus by washing thoroughly and trimming off the tough woody ends. Cut asparagus into 2-inch diagonal pieces to ensure even cooking and attractive presentation.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Add asparagus pieces to the skillet and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they become bright green and slightly tender but still crisp.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water before draining the pasta. Drain pasta completely in a colander.
- Add drained pasta directly to the skillet with asparagus. Toss everything together, using reserved pasta water if needed to help create a light sauce.
- Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese over the pasta and asparagus, stirring to distribute evenly and create a creamy texture.
- Season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Toss one final time to combine all ingredients.
- Serve immediately in warm pasta bowls, garnishing with additional parmesan cheese if preferred. Enjoy while hot.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: While spaghetti and fettuccine work beautifully, feel free to experiment with your favorite pasta shape for a fun twist on this dish.
- Prep Ahead: To save time, wash and trim your asparagus and mince your garlic ahead of time. This way, you can focus on the cooking process without interruptions.
- Don’t Overcook the Asparagus: Aim for bright green asparagus that’s still crisp. It should only take a few minutes to stir-fry, ensuring it retains its vibrant color and nutrients.
- Pasta Water is Key: Reserve some pasta cooking water before draining. This starchy water can help create a silky sauce that clings beautifully to your pasta.
- Customize Your Flavor: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices. Fresh basil or a squeeze of lemon can elevate the flavors even more!
- Serve Hot: For the best taste and texture, serve your Asparagus Pasta Stir Fry immediately. Garnish with extra parmesan for that perfect finishing touch!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 360kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 5mg
