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Fresh Lemon Asparagus Pasta Recipe with Creamy Burrata and Basil

fresh lemon asparagus pasta - featured image

A bright and creamy spring pasta dish featuring fresh lemon, tender asparagus, creamy burrata, and fragrant basil. Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti or linguine
  • 1 bunch (~1 lb / 450 g) asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 2 medium-sized lemons, zested and juiced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 8 oz (225 g) burrata cheese, torn into chunks
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil, roughly chopped
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Trim the tough ends off the asparagus and cut into 2-inch pieces (about 5 minutes).
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz of spaghetti or linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes). Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
  3. While pasta cooks, heat 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds, being careful not to burn it.
  4. Add asparagus pieces to the skillet, season lightly with salt and pepper, and sauté for 4-5 minutes until tender but still crisp.
  5. Stir in the zest of 2 lemons and the juice from 1 lemon into the asparagus. Cook for another minute to let the flavors meld.
  6. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with asparagus. Toss gently to combine, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time (about 1/4 to 1/2 cup) to loosen the sauce and help it cling to the noodles.
  7. Remove the skillet from heat. Tear 8 oz of burrata cheese into chunks and fold into the pasta until creamy and slightly melted. Stir in 1/2 cup roughly chopped fresh basil. If desired, sprinkle 1/4 cup grated Parmesan and a pinch of red pepper flakes.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra lemon juice if needed. Serve immediately.

Notes

Do not overcook the asparagus; it should retain a slight snap. Add pasta water gradually to achieve a silky sauce without it becoming watery. Gently fold in burrata to keep creamy pockets intact. For reheating leftovers, add a splash of olive oil or fresh burrata/mozzarella to revive creaminess.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon pasta, asparagus pasta, burrata pasta, spring recipe, easy pasta, quick dinner, creamy pasta, basil pasta