This creamy asparagus and mushroom pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender asparagus, sautéed mushrooms, and pasta coated in a rich, cheesy sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner, the creamy sauce clings to each piece of pasta, making every bite satisfying. With its fresh vegetables and simple preparation, this dish is easy to whip up for a weeknight meal or a special dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comfort in Every Bite: The creamy Parmesan sauce is rich and satisfying.
- Quick and Easy: Comes together in about 30 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights.
- Vegetable-Packed: Fresh asparagus and mushrooms add flavor and nutrition.
Pair it with Garlic Bread or Caesar Salad for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- Pasta of your choice (e.g., fettuccine or penne)
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter (for sautéing)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
How to Make Creamy Asparagus and Mushroom Pasta
1. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions.
- Drain the pasta, reserving ½ cup of pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later. Set the pasta aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the mushrooms and sauté until they release their moisture and turn golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Toss in the asparagus and sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes, until tender.
- Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce
- Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and bring it to a gentle simmer.
- Allow the sauce to thicken slightly, about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce becomes smooth.
4. Combine with Pasta
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce.
- If needed, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce to your desired consistency.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Transfer the pasta to serving plates or a large bowl.
- Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley or basil for a burst of color and flavor.
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overcook the Asparagus: Keep the asparagus slightly crisp for the best texture.
- Use High-Quality Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan melts smoothly and enhances the flavor.
- Make It Lighter: Swap half of the cream for milk or use a dairy-free alternative.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450
- Total Fat: 25g (Saturated Fat: 15g)
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 320mg
- Carbohydrates: 45g (Fiber: 3g, Sugars: 2g)
- Protein: 15g
More Pasta Recipes You’ll Love
- Pasta Primavera: A veggie-packed pasta dish perfect for spring.
- Creamy Pesto Pasta: A rich pasta with fresh basil pesto.
- Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta: A zesty, seafood-inspired dish.
Final Thoughts on Creamy Asparagus and Mushroom Pasta
This creamy asparagus and mushroom pasta is the perfect balance of rich sauce and fresh vegetables. It’s easy to customize with your favorite herbs or additional veggies, making it a versatile option for any dinner. Whether you enjoy it as a quick meal or a special dinner, this pasta dish is sure to please!
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