Pasta Twists With Asparagus Sauce

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Servings: 1 Difficulty: Advanced
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Creamy, vibrant asparagus sauce tossed with tender pasta twists for a quick weeknight meal.
Pasta Twists With Asparagus Sauce*** recipe image
Pasta Twists With Asparagus Sauce*** recipe image
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Pasta Twists With Asparagus Sauce

Author: chefs-mate Cooking Method: , Cuisine: Courses:
Difficulty: Advanced
Servings: 1 Calories: 204.1

Description

This dish features a luscious, creamy sauce made from fresh asparagus tips, butter, and half-and-half, coated over perfectly cooked pasta twists. The combination of rich dairy and bright green vegetables creates a comforting yet light main course that feels elegant without being difficult to prepare. Ideal for spring dinners or when you crave a savory, vegetarian Italian-inspired meal, it comes together quickly using pantry staples. The mild flavor of the asparagus shines through the smooth sauce, making it a hit with both adults and children who enjoy simple, satisfying food.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Cook 12 oz of pasta twists according to package directions until al dente; drain and set aside.
  2. Steam 2 cups of asparagus tips and tender stalks until just tender, about 2-3 minutes, then drain.
  3. In a large skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter with 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
  4. Add the steamed asparagus tips to the skillet and sauté lightly for 1 minute, just to coat in fat.
  5. Remove the asparagus tips from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
  6. In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of flour and whisk constantly for 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste.
  7. Slowly pour in 1 pint of half-and-half while whisking continuously to create a smooth, lump-free sauce.
  8. Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently until slightly thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
  9. Crumble 1 large flavor cube into the sauce and stir until fully dissolved.
  10. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
  11. Return the sautéed asparagus tips to the skillet and gently toss to combine with the sauce.
  12. Serve the sauce over the hot cooked pasta.
  13. Top generously with grated cheese before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 1

Amount Per Serving
Calories 204.1kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 20.6g32%
Saturated Fat 7.3g37%
Cholesterol 24.2mg9%
Sodium 74.7mg4%
Total Carbohydrate 4.7g2%
Dietary Fiber 2.5g10%
Sugars 2.3g
Protein 2.7g6%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Substitutions: You can use vegetable broth instead of a flavor cube for a cleaner taste. Whole milk can replace half-and-half for a lighter sauce, though it may be less rich.

Tip: Ensure your asparagus is fresh and tender; tough stalks should be peeled or discarded before cooking.

Keywords: asparagus, butter, cream, creamy, dinner, easy, flavor cube, half-and-half, italian, main, olive oil, pasta, quick, sauce, sauté, spring, vegetarian, vegetables, weeknight
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