Print

Creamy Lemon Asparagus Pasta Recipe Easy Homemade Parmesan Sauce

creamy lemon asparagus pasta - featured image

A quick and easy creamy lemon asparagus pasta with a silky homemade parmesan sauce, perfect for spring and summer meals. This comforting dish balances tangy lemon, fresh asparagus, and rich parmesan for a flavorful pasta experience.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces (225 g) pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or penne)
  • 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
  • 1 cup (100 g) freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 lemon, zested and juiced
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces (225 g) of pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 9–11 minutes. Reserve ½ cup (120 ml) of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
  2. While pasta cooks, trim the tough ends off 1 bunch of fresh asparagus and cut into 2-inch pieces. Set aside.
  3. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter. Add minced garlic (2 cloves) and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Toss in asparagus pieces and sauté for 4–5 minutes until tender-crisp and bright green.
  4. Lower heat to medium-low. Pour in 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream and stir to combine with butter and garlic. Add 1 cup (100 g) freshly grated parmesan cheese gradually, stirring constantly until melted and smooth. If sauce looks too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time to loosen it.
  5. Stir in zest and juice of 1 lemon. Taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  6. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with sauce and asparagus. Toss gently to coat pasta evenly, heating through for 1–2 minutes. If the sauce needs thinning, add a splash of pasta water.
  7. Plate the creamy lemon asparagus pasta, garnish with extra parmesan and chopped fresh parsley or basil if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

Use fresh lemon zest and juice for best flavor. Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency. Melt parmesan slowly over low heat to avoid clumping. Cook asparagus until tender-crisp to maintain texture and color. Adjust salt carefully as parmesan adds saltiness. For dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with coconut or cashew cream and use dairy-free parmesan alternative.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy lemon asparagus pasta, parmesan sauce, easy pasta recipe, spring pasta, homemade sauce, quick dinner, vegetarian pasta