Vegetarian Lemon Asparagus Pasta

To prepare Vegetarian Lemon Asparagus Pasta, here’s a delightful recipe that combines fresh asparagus with a zesty lemon sauce, perfect for a light and flavorful meal.

Ingredients

• Pasta:
• 10 ounces (about 285g) of your choice (such as fettuccine, bow tie, or gemelli)
• Asparagus:
• 1 bunch (about 12 ounces), trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• Aromatics:
• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• Liquid Base:
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup canned coconut milk (for creaminess)
• Flavorings:
• Juice and zest of 1-2 lemons
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Oil:
• Olive oil for sautéing
• Optional:
• Nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan for a cheesy flavor

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven (Optional): If you prefer roasted asparagus, preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). Toss the asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast for about 20 minutes until tender.
2. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
3. Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add Asparagus: If using fresh asparagus, add it to the skillet and sauté for about 5 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
5. Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add vegetable broth and coconut milk. Bring to a simmer, then stir in lemon juice and zest. Season with salt and pepper. For a creamier sauce, you can blend the mixture using an immersion blender or regular blender until smooth.
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually until reaching your desired consistency.
7. Serve: Divide among serving plates and garnish with additional lemon zest, nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan if desired.

Tips

• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like cherry tomatoes, spinach, or peas for added color and nutrition.
• Thickening the Sauce: If you want a thicker sauce without adding more flour, consider blending in some cooked cauliflower or using less liquid.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta if needed.

Good Gluten-Free Pasta Options

Here are some excellent gluten-free pasta options for this recipe:

• Tinkyáda Brown Rice Pasta: Known for its good flavor and texture, it holds up well in sauces.
• Banza Chickpea Pasta: High in protein and fiber, it has a nice texture and works well with various sauces.
• Jovial Gluten-Free Penne: This pasta is robust and retains its firmness, making it ideal for creamy dishes.
• Ancient Harvest Quinoa Pasta: A blend of quinoa and corn, providing a unique flavor and good texture.

Adding Protein

Yes, you can definitely add protein like:

• Chickpeas: They complement the dish well and add fiber and protein.
• Tempeh: Sautéed or crumbled tempeh can add a nutty flavor and additional protein.
• Tofu: Firm tofu can be cubed and sautéed for a protein boost.

Making the Dish Spicy

To add some heat to your pasta:

• Red Pepper Flakes: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes while cooking to infuse the dish with heat.
• Sriracha or Hot Sauce: Drizzle on top before serving or mix into the sauce.
• Fresh Jalapeños: Sauté sliced jalapeños with the onions for a fresh, spicy kick.

Complementary Herbs

Herbs that pair well with lemon and asparagus include:

• Basil: Fresh basil adds a sweet, aromatic flavor.
• Parsley: Brightens the dish and adds freshness.
• Thyme: Offers an earthy note that complements the lemon.
• Dill: Its unique flavor pairs nicely with asparagus.

Using Different Types of Milk

You can substitute coconut milk with other non-dairy options for a creamier sauce:

• Cashew Milk: Creamy and rich, it works well in sauces.
• Soy Milk: Provides a good creamy texture without overpowering flavors.
• Oat Milk: Slightly sweet and creamy, it’s a great alternative for sauces.

These tips will help you customize your Vegetarian Lemon Asparagus Pasta to suit your preferences! Enjoy your cooking!

This vegetarian lemon asparagus pasta is not only quick to prepare but also packed with fresh flavors that celebrate spring! Enjoy your meal!