Name: Lemon Asparagus Pasta
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 8 ounces whole-wheat penne pasta; 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 0.75-inch pieces; 1.5 cups whole milk; 3 tablespoons whole-grain mustard; 4 teaspoons flour; 0.5 teaspoon salt; 0.5 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil; 1 shallot, minced; 3 tablespoons minced garlic; 2 teaspoons minced fresh tarragon; 1 teaspoon freshly grated lemon zest; 2 teaspoons lemon juice; 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided

Lemon Asparagus Pasta

Lemon zest ties all the flavors together in this light and creamy pasta. Make it a meal: Serve with a salad of sliced fresh mozzarella and cherry tomatoes tossed with a little fresh basil, balsamic vinegar, and olive oil.

Print Recipe

Servings: 4

Instructions

Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
Add the whole-wheat penne pasta and cook for 3 minutes less than the package directions.
Add the asparagus and continue cooking for an additional 3 minutes, until both the pasta and asparagus are just tender.
Drain and return the pasta and asparagus to the pot.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the whole milk, whole-grain mustard, flour, salt, and black pepper.
Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat.
Add the minced garlic and shallot and cook, stirring, until fragrant and lightly browned, about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
Gradually whisk in the milk mixture.
Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, and cook until thickened, about 1–2 minutes.
Stir in the tarragon, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
Pour the sauce over the pasta and asparagus.
Cook over medium-high heat, stirring, until the sauce is thick, creamy, and evenly coats the pasta, about 1–2 minutes.
Stir in 0.25 cup of the grated Parmesan cheese.
Divide the pasta among 4 bowls.
Top each serving with the remaining 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

Amount Per Serving
Calories 359kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 10g16%
Saturated Fat 4g20%
Cholesterol 18mg6%
Total Carbohydrate 56g19%
Dietary Fiber 7g29%
Sugars 7g
Protein 17g34%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Hearty and wholesome, whole-wheat penne pasta provides a nutty flavor and fiber-rich base that makes the dish both satisfying and nourishing.

Fresh and vibrant, asparagus adds a crisp-tender bite and bright green color that brings a taste of spring to every forkful.

Creamy and comforting, whole milk forms a smooth, velvety sauce that gently coats the pasta while balancing the dish's bright flavors.

Sharp and tangy, whole-grain mustard brings subtle spice and texture, adding depth and complexity to the creamy sauce.

Lemon Asparagus Pasta