Lemon Asparagus Pasta

This citrusy lemon asparagus pasta is a delicious combo of crisp-tender asparagus with penne, lemon juice and zest, plus plenty of Parmesan cheese.

• Preparation Time: 15 mins
• Cooking Time: 15 mins
• Total Time: 30 mins
• Calories: 378 Calories

Ingredients

• salt to taste
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 (16 ounce) package penne pasta
• freshly cracked black pepper to taste
• 1 large lemon, zested and juiced
• 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 0.5 cup olive oil

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Fill a large pot with lightly salted water and bring to a boil. Stir in penne and return to a boil. Cook pasta uncovered, stirring occasionally, for about 8 minutes. Penne will still be slightly firm.

Step 2

Place penne and asparagus into a large bowl; lightly stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, salt, and black pepper until thoroughly combined.

Step 3

Stir asparagus into the pot with the boiling penne pasta and bring back to a boil; cook until pasta is al dente and asparagus is tender-crisp but still bright green, about 3 more minutes. Drain pasta and asparagus.