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Easy One-Pan Spring Pasta Primavera with Asparagus

one-pan pasta primavera - featured image

A quick and easy one-pan pasta dish featuring fresh asparagus, cherry tomatoes, and a garlicky lemon broth, perfect for a light and vibrant spring dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 large garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) uncooked spaghetti
  • 3 1/2 cups (830 ml) vegetable broth (low-sodium recommended)
  • Zest of 1 medium lemon
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering, about 1-2 minutes.
  2. Add minced garlic and chopped onion; cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until onion is translucent and fragrant.
  3. Add asparagus pieces and cherry tomatoes; stir and cook for 3-5 minutes until asparagus is bright green and slightly tender.
  4. Pour in 3 1/2 cups vegetable broth. Break spaghetti in half and add to skillet, pressing down to submerge in broth. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to medium-low and simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, for 10-12 minutes until pasta is al dente and most liquid is absorbed. Add more broth or water if needed.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in lemon zest and chopped basil leaves. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  7. If using, sprinkle grated Parmesan over pasta and fold in until melted and creamy.
  8. Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil or Parmesan if desired.

Notes

Stir occasionally during cooking to prevent pasta from sticking. Add extra broth or water if the liquid evaporates too quickly. Use fresh asparagus and basil for best flavor. For vegan version, replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast or plant-based cheese. Gluten-free pasta can be used as a substitute.

Nutrition

Keywords: one-pan pasta, primavera, asparagus, spring recipe, easy dinner, quick pasta, vegetarian pasta, healthy pasta