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Fresh One-Pot Spring Pasta Recipe with Lemon Ricotta and Asparagus

one-pot spring pasta - featured image

A quick, light, and fuss-free one-pot pasta featuring lemony ricotta, bright asparagus, and sweet peas, perfect for celebrating spring produce with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces linguine or spaghetti
  • 1 bunch asparagus (about 1 pound), trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
  • Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
  • 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth or water
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep the veggies and lemon: trim asparagus ends and cut into 2-inch pieces; mince garlic; zest and juice the lemon.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and golden, about 2 minutes.
  3. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a gentle boil. Add dry pasta, ensuring it is submerged.
  4. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook uncovered, stirring often to prevent sticking. Halfway through cooking, stir in asparagus and peas. Add more broth or water if needed.
  5. Check pasta for al dente doneness; continue cooking and stirring if necessary until pasta is tender but firm.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in ricotta, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.
  7. Serve immediately, topped with freshly grated Parmesan if desired.

Notes

Use room temperature ricotta to avoid curdling. Stir frequently to prevent pasta from sticking. Adjust liquid as needed during cooking. For gluten-free, use chickpea or brown rice pasta. For vegan, substitute ricotta with plant-based cream and Parmesan with nutritional yeast.

Nutrition

Keywords: one-pot pasta, spring pasta, lemon ricotta pasta, asparagus pasta, easy healthy meals, vegetarian pasta, quick dinner