Lemon Basil Asparagus Penne
This vibrant Lemon Basil Asparagus Penne is a delightful combination of al dente penne pasta and tender asparagus, all brought to life with bursts of sweet cherry tomatoes. Tossed in a light, flavorful sauce enhanced by vegetable broth and the nuttiness of Parmesan cheese, this one-dish meal is as nutritious as it is delicious. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends, it's topped with fresh basil for an aromatic finish that elevates every bite. Plunk 'em in, and just devour!
4
Servings
300
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
penne pasta
6 ounces (dry)
olive oil
1 tablespoon (for sautéing)
garlic clove
1 (minced)
thin asparagus
1 pound (trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces)
cherry tomatoes
1 cup (halved)
frozen peas
1/2 cup (or fresh if available)
vegetable stock
1/2 cup (low-sodium recommended)
grated parmesan cheese
1 cup (for serving and mixing)
fresh basil leaves
1 tablespoon (chopped for garnish)
Instructions
1
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions, typically 8 to 10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water.
2
2. In a large sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, approximately 1 minute.
3
3. Add the asparagus to the pan, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for about 3 minutes, or until the asparagus is slightly tender.
4
4. Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and peas, cooking for an additional 2 minutes. Pour in the vegetable stock and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the tomatoes to burst and the stock to reduce by half, roughly 3 minutes.
5
5. Transfer the asparagus and tomato mixture to a large serving bowl. Add the drained pasta and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Toss gently to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
6
6. Garnish with the remaining Parmesan and freshly chopped basil before serving.
Nutrition Information
7.5g
Fat
45g
Carbs
11.25g
Protein
3.75g
Fiber
2.5g
Sugar
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main dish described in this recipe?
The main dish is Lemon Basil Asparagus Penne, a vibrant pasta meal with fresh vegetables.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes 4 servings.
What type of pasta is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 6 ounces of dry penne pasta.
How long should the penne pasta be cooked?
Cook the penne according to the package instructions, typically for 8 to 10 minutes, until it is al dente.
Should I save any of the pasta cooking water?
Yes, you should reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.
What kind of oil is used for sautéing?
The recipe uses 1 tablespoon of olive oil for sautéing.
How much garlic is required?
You will need 1 minced garlic clove.
How much asparagus is needed for this dish?
The recipe requires 1 pound of thin asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces.
What type of tomatoes should I use?
You should use 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved.
Can I use fresh or frozen peas?
You can use 1/2 cup of frozen peas or fresh peas if they are available.
What is used as the base for the sauce?
The sauce is made using 1/2 cup of low-sodium vegetable stock and reserved pasta water.
How much Parmesan cheese is needed?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, used for both mixing and serving.
What is used for the aromatic garnish?
The dish is garnished with 1 tablespoon of freshly chopped basil leaves.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this is a vegetarian-friendly pasta dish.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 300 calories.
What is the fat content per serving?
There is 7.5g of fat per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
Each serving contains 45g of carbohydrates.
How much protein does this dish provide per serving?
This dish provides 11.25g of protein per serving.
What is the fiber content of this meal?
There is 3.75g of fiber per serving.
How much sugar is in one serving?
Each serving contains 2.5g of sugar.
How many ingredients are required in total?
There are 9 primary ingredients required for this recipe.
How long should the garlic be sautéed?
Sauté the minced garlic for approximately 1 minute until it becomes fragrant.
How long do I cook the asparagus in the pan?
Cook the asparagus for about 3 minutes until it is slightly tender.
When do I add the cherry tomatoes and peas?
Add the tomatoes and peas after the asparagus has cooked for 3 minutes, then cook for 2 more minutes.
What is the purpose of the vegetable stock in this recipe?
The stock is simmered with the vegetables to create a light sauce and allow the tomatoes to burst.
When do I add the Parmesan cheese?
Add half of the cheese when tossing the pasta with the vegetables and the remaining half as a garnish.
How do I adjust the consistency of the pasta sauce?
You can add the reserved pasta water as needed to achieve your desired consistency.
What is the recommended heat level for boiling the pasta water?
The water should be brought to a rolling boil over high heat.
Is this dish considered a quick meal?
Yes, it is tagged as a quick meal and a perfect weeknight dinner.
What is the texture of the asparagus in this dish?
The asparagus should be tender but still slightly firm.