Ingredients
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12 oz pasta (such as fettuccine or spaghetti)
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1 lb asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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Zest and juice of 1 lemon
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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Optional: red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
Instructions
1️⃣ Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
2️⃣ About 2 minutes before the pasta is done, add the asparagus pieces to the boiling water with the pasta.
3️⃣ While the pasta and asparagus cook, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4️⃣ Reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and asparagus.
5️⃣ Add the drained pasta and asparagus to the skillet with the garlic. Toss to combine.
6️⃣ Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
7️⃣ Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.