Lemon-Pepper Pasta with Asparagus

Lemon-Pepper Pasta with Asparagus

Looking for a quick, nutritious, and delicious dinner option? This Lemon-Pepper Pasta with Asparagus is the perfect solution for a vegetable-rich, flavorful dish that can be whipped up on a busy weeknight. It combines the fresh taste of lemon with tender asparagus and a hint of peppery spice, making it both light and satisfying.

Lemon-Pepper Pasta with Asparagus

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups uncooked farfalle (bow-tie) pasta
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, chopped (1 cup)
  • 1 lb. asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 teaspoon grated lemon peel
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 3 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 15-oz. can navy beans, drained and rinsed

Directions:

  1. Cook the Pasta
    Cook the farfalle pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables
    In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped red bell pepper, asparagus, grated lemon peel, salt, and black pepper. Sauté the vegetables, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender-crisp.
  3. Add Lemon Juice and Beans
    Stir in the lemon juice and the drained, rinsed navy beans. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the beans are heated through.
  4. Combine with Pasta
    Add the cooked pasta to the vegetable mixture in the skillet. Toss everything together to evenly coat the pasta with the vegetables and lemon-pepper sauce.
  5. Serve
    Sprinkle the dish with extra ground black pepper, if desired, and serve immediately.

Why You’ll Love It:

  • Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of fresh asparagus, zesty lemon, and a touch of black pepper gives this dish a bright and vibrant flavor that is perfect for spring or summer.
  • Vegetable-Rich: Packed with asparagus, bell peppers, and navy beans, this dish provides a hearty dose of vitamins, fiber, and plant-based protein.
  • Quick and Easy: This meal comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.

Enjoy this healthy, flavorful Lemon-Pepper Pasta with Asparagus as a light dinner or lunch, and feel good knowing you’re getting a nutritious, delicious meal!