Roasted Garlic & Asparagus Pasta

Experience the essence of spring with this Roasted Garlic & Asparagus Pasta. This dish highlights the mellow sweetness of whole roasted garlic cloves and the crisp-tender texture of fresh asparagus, all brought together with high-quality olive oil and al dente spaghetti. It is a simple, vibrant meal that celebrates seasonal ingredients with effortless Italian style.

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Roasted Garlic & Asparagus Pasta is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a light weekend lunch. By roasting the garlic and asparagus in the oven while the pasta boils, you maximize flavor with minimal active cooking time, resulting in a silky sauce that perfectly coats every strand of spaghetti.

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 of garlic roasting, 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

Make sure to use a large skillet and tongs to toss the pasta effectively; this ensures the mashed roasted garlic and olive oil emulsify with the pasta water to create a smooth, glossy sauce. Trimming the woody ends of the asparagus is essential for the best texture.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a vegan version, omit the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative. You can easily make this gluten-free by using your favorite gluten-free spaghetti. For added texture and a nutty flavor, consider tossing in some toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts before serving.

Serviervorschläge

Serve this pasta immediately while hot, finishing each plate with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh parsley. This bright, herbaceous dish pairs wonderfully with a glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc to complement the lemon zest and garlic notes.

Perfect for frying eggs, sautéing vegetables, and simmering small-batch sauces for quick everyday meals.

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This Roasted Garlic & Asparagus Pasta is a testament to how a few simple, high-quality ingredients can create a meal that is both comforting and elegant. Enjoy the bright flavors of spring in every bite.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ How long does garlic need to roast?

Roast the garlic head at 400°F for about 30 minutes until the cloves are soft and golden throughout. You'll know it's ready when the cloves squeeze out easily from their skins.

→ Can I prepare the asparagus differently?

Yes, you can blanch asparagus in boiling salted water for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp, or sauté fresh cut pieces in a skillet with olive oil and garlic for 5-7 minutes for a different texture.

→ What's the best way to cook spaghetti al dente?

Follow the package instructions but start checking 1-2 minutes before the suggested time. Pasta should be tender but still have a slight firmness when bitten. Reserve pasta water before draining.

→ How do I make this vegan?

Omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute with a plant-based alternative like nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan. The roasted garlic and asparagus provide plenty of flavor on their own.

→ Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely. Try adding cherry tomatoes, zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach. Roast firmer vegetables with the garlic, and add delicate greens like spinach at the end so they just wilt.

→ What wine pairs well with this pasta?

A crisp Sauvignon Blanc complements the bright, fresh flavors beautifully. The acidity cuts through the richness of the olive oil and brings out the sweetness of the roasted garlic.