Description
This Creamy Lemon Basil and Asparagus Ricotta Pasta is a fresh and vibrant dish packed with citrusy flavors, tender asparagus, and a rich, creamy ricotta sauce. Topped with toasted breadcrumbs, parmesan, and roasted pistachios, this easy pasta is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 lb short-cut pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli)
- Kosher salt & black pepper, to taste
- 1 bunch asparagus, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced or grated
- ¼ cup dry white wine (Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
- 8 oz ricotta cheese (whipped, if desired)
- ⅓ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 3-4 lemon slices, chopped (seeds removed)
- 2 tbsp cold salted butter
For the Topping:
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp roasted pistachios, chopped (optional)
- ½-1 tsp red pepper flakes
Instructions
-
Toast the Breadcrumbs:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add 2 tbsp olive oil, Panko breadcrumbs, and red pepper flakes.
- Cook for about 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown.
- Stir in chopped pistachios (if using), remove from heat, and season with salt.
-
Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook pasta until al dente according to package instructions.
- Before draining, reserve ½ cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
-
Caramelize the Lemon:
- In the same skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tbsp butter and chopped lemon slices.
- Cook for about 2 minutes until the lemon is caramelized.
- Remove from the skillet and toss with chopped basil in a small bowl.
-
Cook the Asparagus:
- Add 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter to the skillet.
- Stir in chopped asparagus, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5 minutes until tender.
- Add garlic and a pinch of red pepper flakes, cooking for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
-
Assemble the Pasta:
- Pour in white wine and let it cook down for 1 minute.
- Add cooked pasta, ricotta, parmesan, and half of the lemon-basil mixture.
- Stir everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed for a creamy sauce.
-
Serve & Enjoy:
- Remove from heat and serve immediately.
- Top with toasted breadcrumbs, extra basil, and parmesan.
Notes
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp.
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free ricotta and parmesan alternatives.
- Gluten-Free: Swap for gluten-free pasta.
- Extra Greens: Add spinach or arugula for more veggies.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
