Looking for a quick and delicious meal that’s both comforting and packed with nutrients? Dive into the vibrant world of Italian cuisine with our Asparagus Pasta with White Beans! This delightful dish combines tender asparagus, hearty white beans, and perfectly cooked pasta in a light, flavorful sauce that will tantalize your taste buds. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner with friends. Plus, with the option of adding freshly grated Parmesan, you’ll feel like you’re dining at a five-star restaurant without the hefty price tag. Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta of choice
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut
- 1 can white beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. The water should taste like seawater to properly season the pasta.
- While water is heating, wash and trim the asparagus, cutting it into 1-inch diagonal pieces. This will help the asparagus cook evenly and look more elegant.
- Add pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package directions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Add trimmed asparagus to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until bright green and slightly tender.
- Drain and rinse white beans, then add them to the skillet with asparagus. Gently stir to warm through.
- Add drained pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together. If mixture seems dry, add reserved pasta water gradually to create a light sauce.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. The reserved pasta water will help bind the ingredients and add a silky texture.
- Serve hot, optionally garnishing with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and an extra drizzle of olive oil.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: While any pasta will work, consider using whole grain or gluten-free options for added health benefits and flavor.
- Perfectly Seasoned Water: Don’t skimp on salting the water! It’s essential for infusing flavor into the pasta, making a significant difference in the final dish.
- Cook Asparagus Just Right: Aim for bright green, slightly tender asparagus. Overcooking will result in a mushy texture, so keep an eye on it!
- Reserve Pasta Water: Always save a cup of the starchy pasta cooking water. It’s a secret ingredient that helps create a silky sauce and brings all the components together beautifully.
- Customize Your Dish: Feel free to add other vegetables or proteins like cherry tomatoes or grilled chicken for a heartier meal.
- Finishing Touches: A drizzle of high-quality olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs can elevate the dish, adding freshness and depth of flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 5mg
