Looking to impress your partner with a delightful dinner that won't keep you in the kitchen for hours? Say hello to the "Quick Date Night Pasta with Asparagus"! This Italian-inspired dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a breeze to prepare, taking just 20 minutes from start to finish. With its vibrant colors and rich flavors, it's the perfect recipe to set the mood for a romantic evening at home. Ready to whisk your taste buds away? Let’s dive into this quick and easy recipe that will have you savoring every bite and craving more!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 200g pasta of choice
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated vegan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. The water should taste like seawater to properly season the pasta.
- While water is heating, wash and trim the asparagus by cutting off the tough woody ends. Cut asparagus into 1-inch diagonal pieces to ensure even cooking and attractive presentation.
- Add pasta to boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes depending on pasta type.
- During the last 3-4 minutes of pasta cooking, add asparagus pieces directly into the same boiling water to cook simultaneously, saving on dishes and cooking time.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant but not browned, which prevents bitterness.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water before draining pasta and asparagus. This starchy water helps create a silky sauce.
- Drain pasta and asparagus, then immediately transfer to the skillet with garlic and olive oil. Toss gently to coat.
- Add reserved pasta water gradually, stirring to create a light sauce. Sprinkle grated vegan cheese and mix until evenly distributed.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Adjust sauce consistency with more pasta water if needed.
- Plate immediately in warmed dishes. Garnish with additional vegan cheese or fresh herbs like basil or parsley if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: Opt for your favorite type of pasta, whether it's spaghetti, penne, or even gluten-free. Each will bring its unique texture to the dish.
- Perfectly Trimmed Asparagus: Make sure to trim the asparagus properly by cutting off the tough ends. This ensures a tender bite every time.
- Timing is Key: To save time and dishes, add the asparagus to the boiling pasta water during the last few minutes of cooking. This allows both to cook perfectly together.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Don't forget to save some pasta cooking water! This starchy liquid is the secret to achieving that creamy, silky sauce without the heaviness.
- Sauté with Care: When sautéing garlic, keep a close eye on it. You want it fragrant and golden, not browned, as burnt garlic can turn bitter.
- Season to Taste: Adjust the seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don’t be shy about tasting as you go to achieve the perfect balance.
- Garnish for Flair: Elevate your dish by garnishing with extra vegan cheese or fresh herbs like basil or parsley right before serving for an added touch of freshness.
- Serve Warm: For the best experience, serve the pasta immediately in warmed dishes to keep everything hot and inviting.By following these tips, you'll create a stunning and delicious meal that’s sure to impress your date!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 335kcal
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
