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Asparagus Pesto Pasta Recipe

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4.9 from 130 reviews

A vibrant and fresh Asparagus Pesto Pasta featuring tender blanched asparagus blended with pistachios, lemon, and parsley to create a creamy and flavorful sauce. This quick and easy dish is perfect for a healthy and satisfying meal, garnished with asparagus tips and lemon zest for added brightness.

Ingredients

For the Pesto

  • 1 lb asparagus
  • ½ cup pistachio nuts
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (from 1 lemon)
  • ½ cup fresh parsley leaves
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small garlic clove (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pasta

  • 12 oz pasta of choice (farfalle, penne, spaghetti, rigatoni, linguine)
  • Salt (for boiling water)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Asparagus: Chop the asparagus into small pieces, discarding any woody ends. Wash thoroughly.
  2. Blanch Asparagus: Bring a small pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the chopped asparagus for about 5 minutes until slightly tender. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Reserve the asparagus tips separately for garnish.
  3. Cook Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.
  4. Make Asparagus Pesto: Add pistachios to a blender or food processor and pulse until chopped. Add the blanched asparagus, garlic, lemon juice, parsley, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.
  5. Toss Pasta with Pesto: Combine the cooked pasta with the asparagus pesto. Add reserved pasta cooking water gradually to achieve a silky, saucy consistency. Mix thoroughly to coat the pasta.
  6. Plate and Garnish: Serve the pasta hot, topped with the reserved asparagus tips and sprinkled with lemon zest for a fresh, bright finish.

Notes

  • Toasting the pistachios lightly before blending can enhance their flavor.
  • Adjust the amount of garlic according to your preference; it is optional.
  • Use nut alternatives such as walnuts or almonds if desired.
  • Reserve pasta water is key to emulsify and create a smooth sauce texture.
  • Can be served warm or at room temperature.

Find it online: https://ameliameals.com/asparagus-pesto-pasta-recipe/