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This vibrant lemon herb pasta with spring vegetables has become my go to when I want something fresh and flavorful without much effort. It is light yet satisfying and truly captures the essence of the season in every bite.
My favorite thing about this dish is how quickly it comes together I started making it after a visit to the farmers market and it has since become a regular part of our spring routine
Ingredients
- Pasta: provides the base of the dish choose quality spaghetti or penne with a firm bite
- Asparagus: adds freshness and crunch look for bright green stalks with tightly closed tips
- Cherry tomatoes: contribute sweetness and color go for firm ones with vibrant red skin
- Peas: bring tenderness and pop fresh is ideal but frozen works well too
- Olive oil: forms the foundation of the dressing use extra virgin for richer flavor
- Lemon juice and zest: add brightness make sure to use fresh lemon for best aroma
- Garlic: deepens the savory element mince it finely to distribute flavor evenly
- Fresh basil: provides herbal freshness pick leaves that are vibrant and unblemished
- Parmesan cheese: adds saltiness and creaminess grate it just before using for best texture or use nutritional yeast for a vegan twist
- Salt and pepper: season the dish to taste always taste before serving to balance flavors
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Boil Pasta and Blanch Vegetables:
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until just shy of al dente In the final three minutes of cooking time add the asparagus and peas directly to the pot Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking then drain everything together and set aside
- Make the Lemon Herb Dressing:
- In a spacious mixing bowl whisk together the olive oil fresh lemon juice lemon zest and minced garlic Season with a generous pinch of salt and black pepper Continue whisking until the mixture becomes emulsified and aromatic
- Combine and Toss:
- Add the drained pasta along with the asparagus peas and halved cherry tomatoes into the dressing Toss thoroughly using tongs to coat everything in the lemony mixture Let the flavors blend for a couple of minutes
- Finish and Serve:
- Fold in the chopped fresh basil and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese Toss one last time to integrate the herbs and cheesy finish Serve immediately or let cool slightly for a room temperature version
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I love how the lemon zest perfumes the entire dish I once made this for a spring picnic and even after an hour at room temperature it tasted just as good and the basil really shined
Storage Tips
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days It tastes great cold or reheated gently on the stove with a splash of water or extra olive oil to revive it
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap asparagus for snap peas or green beans in a pinch If basil is unavailable try flat leaf parsley or fresh mint For a vegan version use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan
Serving Suggestions
Serve it as a light main or alongside grilled chicken or fish It pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon slices For a brunch feel offer it with a side of crusty bread
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Cultural Context
This pasta reflects Mediterranean simplicity where high quality seasonal produce is elevated with olive oil lemon and herbs It is the kind of dish you might find on a family table in southern Italy or Greece during the warmer months
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use other vegetables instead of asparagus?
Yes, you can substitute with green beans, zucchini, or even broccoli florets depending on seasonal availability.
- → Is it best served hot or cold?
This dish can be served warm or at room temperature, making it ideal for picnics or quick meals.
- → Can I make it vegan?
Absolutely—just swap the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or your favorite plant-based alternative.
- → What kind of pasta works best?
Short pasta like penne or fusilli works well, but spaghetti also holds the lemony sauce beautifully.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It's great cold or gently reheated.