Spring Pesto Pasta with Asparagus

This spring pesto pasta with asparagus and chives is your ticket to a quick and refreshing meal, ready in under 20 minutes, prep included! Picture perfectly cooked farfalle pasta, embracing the vibrant Flavors of basil pesto, crisp asparagus, fresh chives, and a sprinkle of cheese. It’s like a burst of spring in every mouthful. Serve it piping hot for a fuss-free weeknight dinner, or enjoy it chilled as a delightful pasta salad for lunch.

With spring just around the corner, asparagus starts making its appearance in local markets. This is when I load up on asparagus to create some of my favourite springtime dishes. A single bite of this spring pesto pasta with asparagus will transport you to sunnier days and brighter Flavors.

The magic of pairing pesto with pasta is that it transforms a potentially heavy dish into something delightfully light. Just as our beloved Pesto Penne Pasta and Avocado Basil Pesto Spaghetti do, Spring Pesto Pasta with Asparagus offers you the easiest and lightest pasta dinner option you could hope for. It’s a taste of springtime simplicity and freshness that you won’t want to miss out on!

HOW TO MAKE SPRING PESTO PASTA

• Mixing Tip: When combining the pasta and pesto, opt for a mixing bowl rather than doing it directly in the pot. This prevents the basil in the pesto from turning black due to the pot’s residual heat.
• Customization Options: Feel free to make this spring pesto pasta your own by adding protein like cooked chicken or shrimp. It’s a tasty way to personalize your dish.
• Storage Wisdom: For the best experience, enjoy your spring pesto pasta fresh or chilled as a delightful pasta salad. If you happen to have any leftovers, simply pop them into an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for a maximum of 3 days. Keep in mind that reheating isn’t recommended, as it can cause the basil to lose its vibrant green colour.

Spring pesto pasta with asparagus recipe video:

Ingredients:

For the Pesto:

1. 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
2. 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
3. 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
4. 1/3 cup pine nuts
5. 3 garlic cloves, minced
6. Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Pasta:

1. 1 pound pasta of your choice (such as spaghetti or penne)
2. 1 bunch asparagus
3. 1 tablespoon olive oil
4. Salt to taste

Optional Garnish:

1. Additional grated Parmesan cheese
2. Freshly chopped basil leaves
3. Lemon zest

Instructions:

Making the Pesto:

1. Toast the pine nuts: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pine nuts until lightly golden and fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
2. Blend the ingredients: In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Give the ingredients a few quick pulses in the food processor until they’re nicely chopped.
3. Add the olive oil: With the food processor running, gradually pour in the olive oil in a steady stream until the pesto reaches your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Cooking the Pasta and Asparagus:

1. Boil the pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Before you drain the pasta, scoop out about 1 cup of the cooking water and set it aside.
2. Cook the asparagus: While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the asparagus pieces and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until they are tender yet still crisp. Season with salt to taste.

Bringing It All Together:

1. Combine the pasta and pesto: In the pot used to cook the pasta, toss the drained pasta with the prepared pesto until evenly coated. If the sauce seems too thick, you can slowly add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
2. Add the asparagus: Gently fold in the sautéed asparagus pieces into the pasta.
3. Serve and garnish: Divide the Spring Pesto Pasta with Asparagus among plates. Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese, freshly chopped basil leaves, and a sprinkle of lemon zest for a burst of freshness.

Enjoy the Flavors of Spring:

Indulge in the vibrant colors and tantalizing Flavors of Spring Pesto Pasta with Asparagus. This dish is not only a feast for the senses but also a celebration of the season’s bounty. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving a taste of spring, this recipe is sure to delight your taste buds and leave you craving for more.

This Spring Pesto Pasta with Asparagus is a delightful way to welcome the Flavors of spring to your dinner table. Enjoy the taste of the season!

Spring pesto pasta with asparagus Nutrition Facts:

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on the type and brand of ingredients used, as well as portion sizes.

Spring pesto pasta with asparagus Health Benefits:

1. Asparagus for Fiber and Vitamins: Asparagus is rich in dietary fibre, which supports digestive health. It’s also a good source of vitamins like A, C, and K, as well as folate.
2. Basil and Parsley for Freshness: The fresh basil and parsley in the pesto provide essential nutrients, including vitamins A and K, while adding a burst of fresh, zesty flavour.
3. Olive Oil for Healthy Fats: The extra-virgin olive oil in the recipe is a source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
4. Pine Nuts for Nutrients: Toasted pine nuts offer protein, healthy fats, and various vitamins and minerals.
5. Garlic for Antioxidants: Garlic contains antioxidants that can help combat oxidative stress in the body.
6. Lemon for Vitamin C: Lemon juice and zest contribute vitamin C, which supports the immune system.
7. Customizable and Quick: This recipe is customizable and quick to prepare, making it a convenient option for a wholesome meal.
8. Low in Saturated Fat: The dish is relatively low in saturated fat, which is beneficial for heart health.

Enjoy your Spring Pesto Pasta with Asparagus as a delightful, fresh, and nutritious meal, celebrating the Flavors of the season while providing essential nutrients for your well-being.

Storage Instructions:

After enjoying the fresh and vibrant Flavors of your Spring Pesto Pasta with Asparagus, it’s important to store any leftovers properly to maintain their taste and texture. Here’s how:

1. Allow Cooling: Let the leftover pasta cool down to room temperature before storing it. This helps prevent condensation inside the storage container, which can make the pasta soggy.
2. Use Airtight Container: Transfer the remaining pasta to an airtight container. Ensure that the lid is tightly sealed to keep air out and preserve the freshness of the pasta.
3. Refrigerate Promptly: Place the sealed container of pasta in the refrigerator promptly after serving. Proper refrigeration helps prevent bacterial growth and keeps the pasta safe to eat.
4. Consume Within 2-3 Days: Enjoy your leftover Spring Pesto Pasta with Asparagus within 2-3 days of preparation for the best taste and quality. While it may still be safe to eat beyond this time frame, the Flavors and texture may deteriorate.

Reheating Instructions:

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftover pasta again, follow these simple reheating instructions to bring back its deliciousness:

1. Stovetop Method:

• Place a saucepan on the stove over medium heat.
• Pour a small amount of water or olive oil into the pan.
• Add the leftover pasta to the pan and stir occasionally until heated through.
• Serve hot and enjoy!

2. Serve Cold as Pasta Salad:

• If you prefer to enjoy the pasta cold as a refreshing pasta salad, simply take it out of the refrigerator and serve it chilled.
• You can add some fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavour.

Reuse Ideas:

If you’re looking to get creative with your leftover pasta, here are some ideas to inspire you:

1. Pasta Frittata: Turn your leftover pasta into a delicious frittata by mixing it with beaten eggs and cooking it in a skillet until set. Top with cheese for an extra indulgence.
2. Pasta Bake: Transform your pasta into a comforting pasta bake by layering it with marinara sauce, cheese, and any additional toppings of your choice. Bake until bubbly and golden brown.
3. Pasta Stir-Fry: Use your leftover pasta as a base for a quick and easy stir-fry. Add your favourite vegetables, protein, and sauce for a flavourful meal in minutes.

With these storage, reheating, and reuse instructions, you can make the most of your Spring Pesto Pasta with Asparagus, ensuring that every bite is just as delicious as the first. Enjoy!

HOW TO SERVE PASTA WITH ASPARAGUS PESTO

The beauty of this asparagus pesto pasta is its year-round appeal. Whether you enjoy it warm during winter or spring or relish it cold as a refreshing pasta salad in the summer, it’s a dish that could easily earn its spot as your new favourite vegetarian pasta.

For a complete meal experience, consider complementing this asparagus pasta with a side of rustic, crusty bread like Pull Apart Garlic Bread or Rosemary Garlic Focaccia Bread. Alternatively, it makes an excellent companion to a bowl of soup, such as Cream less Asparagus Soup, Tomato Potato Soup, Creamy Cauliflower and Garlic Soup, or Light Cream of Broccoli Soup. Your culinary options are as limitless as your cravings!

HOW TO MAKE SPRING PESTO PASTA

1. Mixing Tip: When combining the pasta and pesto, opt for a mixing bowl rather than doing it directly in the pot. This prevents the basil in the pesto from turning black due to the pot’s residual heat.
2. Customization Options: Feel free to make this spring pesto pasta your own by adding protein like cooked chicken or shrimp. It’s a tasty way to personalize your dish.
3. Storage Wisdom: For the best experience, enjoy your spring pesto pasta fresh or chilled as a delightful pasta salad. If you happen to have any leftovers, simply pop them into an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for a maximum of 3 days. Keep in mind that reheating isn’t recommended, as it can cause the basil to lose its vibrant green color.

OTHER PASTA RECIPES

1. Toasted Ravioli
2. Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese
3. Zucchini pasta
4. Creamy Tomato Pasta
5. Mushroom Pasta