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Creamy Lemon Asparagus Pasta with Smoked Paprika

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A bright and creamy pasta dish featuring fresh asparagus, lemon zest and juice, and a subtle smoky paprika flavor. Perfect for a quick, satisfying dinner that balances fresh and comforting flavors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz (340 g) pasta of your choice (fettuccine or penne recommended)
  • 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1–2 inch pieces
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lemon, zested and juiced
  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream or half-and-half (whole milk for lighter option)
  • 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese (Parmigiano-Reggiano recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente (8-10 minutes). About 3 minutes before pasta is done, add asparagus pieces to blanch. Drain pasta and asparagus together, reserving 1 cup (240 ml) pasta cooking water.
  2. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Add red pepper flakes if using.
  3. Lower heat to medium-low. Stir in heavy cream, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Warm gently, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens (3-5 minutes). Add smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  4. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a few tablespoons at a time to reach desired creaminess.
  5. Add drained pasta and asparagus to skillet. Toss gently to coat evenly with sauce. Heat through for 1-2 minutes.
  6. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan, lemon zest, smoked paprika, and freshly cracked black pepper.

Notes

Do not overcook asparagus to keep it crisp-tender. Avoid burning garlic to prevent bitterness. Reserve pasta water to loosen sauce if needed. Adjust smoked paprika carefully to avoid overpowering the dish. For dairy-free or vegan versions, substitute cream and Parmesan with plant-based alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon asparagus pasta, creamy pasta, smoked paprika, easy dinner, spring pasta, vegetarian pasta

Find it online: https://fuzzyforker.com/creamy-lemon-asparagus-pasta-recipe-easy-perfect-dinner-idea-with-smoked-paprika/