Roasted Garlic Asparagus Pasta

Celebrate the arrival of spring with this vibrant Roasted Garlic & Asparagus Pasta. This simple yet sophisticated Italian dish brings together the mellow sweetness of whole roasted garlic cloves and the fresh snap of tender asparagus, all tossed with spaghetti for a flavorful and nutritious meal.

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This recipe is a testament to how high-quality, seasonal ingredients can transform into a restaurant-quality experience right in your own kitchen. By roasting the garlic and asparagus, you develop a depth of flavor that perfectly complements the light lemon zest and fresh parsley.

Ingredients

• Vegetables
  • 1 large head garlic
  • 1 bunch (about 1 lb / 450 g) fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• Pasta
  • 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti
• Other
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for roasting
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, plus more for pasta water
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the top off the garlic head to expose the cloves, drizzle with a little olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast for 30 minutes until soft and golden.

Step 2

After 15 minutes, spread asparagus on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast in the same oven for 12-15 minutes, until just tender.

Step 3

Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain pasta.

Step 4

Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves from their skins and mash lightly with a fork.

Step 5

In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1/4 cup olive oil. Add the mashed garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 6

Add roasted asparagus and cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed for a silky sauce.

Step 7

Stir in Parmesan, lemon zest, parsley, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Step 8

Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To ensure the best texture, be sure to reserve the pasta water before draining the spaghetti; this starchy water is essential for creating a silky sauce that coats the pasta perfectly. Also, when mashing the roasted garlic, ensure you sauté it briefly in the skillet to release its aromatic sweetness before adding the remaining ingredients.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a vegan or dairy-free version, simply omit the Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative. If you are following a gluten-free diet, this recipe works excellently with your favorite gluten-free spaghetti. For an added layer of texture and crunch, consider tossing in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts before serving.

Serviervorschläge

Serve this dish immediately while hot, garnished with a generous sprinkle of extra Parmesan and freshly chopped parsley. This light, spring-inspired pasta pairs wonderfully with a glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc.

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This Roasted Garlic & Asparagus Pasta is an elegant yet effortless way to enjoy seasonal produce. Whether it's a quick weeknight dinner or a special spring gathering, this dish is sure to impress with its clean flavors and simple preparation.

Recipe Q&A

→ How do I roast garlic for pasta?

Slice the top off a garlic head to expose cloves, drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast at 400°F for 30 minutes until soft and golden.

→ Can I use other pasta shapes?

Yes, linguine, fettuccine, or penne work well with this dish. Spaghetti is traditional but any pasta holds the olive oil sauce nicely.

→ How do I prevent asparagus from overcooking?

Roast asparagus for just 12-15 minutes at 400°F. It should be tender but still have a slight crunch when done.

→ Can I make this dish ahead?

Roast the garlic and asparagus up to a day in advance. Cook pasta fresh and toss everything together when ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for Parmesan?

Use Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor, or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free vegan alternative.

→ Why reserve pasta water?

Starchy pasta water helps create a silky sauce that clings to the noodles when tossed with olive oil and roasted vegetables.