Here’s a list of all the ingredients for a **lemon pasta with asparagus and pine nuts** recipe, formatted with SEO-friendly keywords to help your content rank better:
- **Pasta**: 12 oz (340g) of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine)
- **Fresh asparagus**: 1 bunch (about 1 lb or 450g), trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- **Lemon**: 2 large lemons (zest and juice for bright, citrusy flavor)
- **Black pepper**: 1/2 tsp, freshly ground (for a hint of spice)
- **Red pepper flakes**: 1/4 tsp (optional, for a subtle kick)
- **Fresh parsley**: 2 tbsp, chopped (for garnish and freshness)
This **lemon asparagus pasta** is a light, flavorful dish perfect for spring or summer meals. The combination of **zesty lemon**, **tender asparagus**, and **crunchy pine nuts** creates a delicious, restaurant-quality meal at home.
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Steps
**How to Make Lemon Pasta with Asparagus and Pine Nuts: A Step-by-Step Guide**
If you're looking for a refreshing, flavorful, and easy-to-make pasta dish, this **lemon pasta with asparagus and pine nuts** is perfect. Packed with bright citrus flavors, tender asparagus, and crunchy pine nuts, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser. Follow these detailed steps to create a restaurant-quality meal at home.
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### **Ingredients**
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine work well)
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- Zest and juice of 2 lemons
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
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### **Step-by-Step Instructions**
#### **1. Cook the Pasta**
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
#### **2. Toast the Pine Nuts**
- While the pasta cooks, heat a small skillet over medium heat. Add the pine nuts and toast them for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden brown. Remove from heat and set aside.
#### **3. Prepare the Asparagus**
- In the same pot used for pasta, blanch the asparagus by boiling it for 2-3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and set aside.
#### **4. Sauté the Garlic**
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
#### **5. Combine Ingredients**
- Add the cooked pasta, blanched asparagus, lemon zest, and lemon juice to the skillet. Toss to combine. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of reserved pasta water to create a light sauce.
#### **6. Add Cheese and Seasoning**
- Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and toasted pine nuts. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Toss everything together until well-coated.
#### **7. Garnish and Serve**
- Transfer the lemon pasta to serving plates. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately for the best flavor.
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### **Tips for Success**
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results.
- Adjust the lemon juice to your taste preference for a more or less tangy flavor.
- For a protein boost, add grilled chicken or shrimp.
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This **lemon pasta with asparagus and pine nuts** is a light, zesty, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for spring or summer dinners. With its vibrant flavors and simple preparation, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy!