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Lemon Asparagus Pasta

Servings: 4
Description

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.

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 (or 0.5 teaspoon dried tarragon)
  • 1 teaspoon freshly grated lemon zest
  • 2 teaspoons lemon juice
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
Instructions
  1. 1
    Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
  2. 2
    Add the whole-wheat penne pasta and cook for 3 minutes less than the package directions.
  3. 3
    Add the asparagus and continue cooking for an additional 3 minutes, until both the pasta and asparagus are just tender.
  4. 4
    Drain and return the pasta and asparagus to the pot.
  5. 5
    In a medium bowl, whisk together the whole milk, whole-grain mustard, flour, salt, and black pepper.
  6. 6
    Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat.
  7. 7
    Add the minced garlic and shallot and cook, stirring, until fragrant and lightly browned, about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
  8. 8
    Gradually whisk in the milk mixture.
  9. 9
    Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, and cook until thickened, about 1–2 minutes.
  10. 10
    Stir in the tarragon, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
  11. 11
    Pour the sauce over the pasta and asparagus.
  12. 12
    Cook over medium-high heat, stirring, until the sauce is thick, creamy, and evenly coats the pasta, about 1–2 minutes.
  13. 13
    Stir in 0.25 cup of the grated Parmesan cheese.
  14. 14
    Divide the pasta among 4 bowls.
  15. 15
    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.
Read it online: https://rmhc-centralohio.org/recipe/lemon-asparagus-pasta/