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- 8 oz whole wheat pasta (penne or fusilli) - 1 tbsp olive oil - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 small onion, finely chopped - 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces

Pasta with Spinach and Asparagus

Looking for a simple and tasty dish to brighten your meal? Try Pasta with Spinach and Asparagus! Packed with fresh flavors, this easy recipe combines whole wheat pasta, crisp asparagus, and vibrant spinach for a nutritious dinner. Perfect for busy nights, it's quick to whip up and can be customized with your favorite vegetables or proteins. Click through to discover the full recipe and indulge in this delicious dish today!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz (225g) whole wheat pasta (penne or fusilli)

1 tbsp olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 small onion, finely chopped

1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces

4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

Zest of 1 lemon

Juice of 1 lemon

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for serving)

Salt and pepper to taste

Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set the pasta aside.

    Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onion, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

      Add Asparagus: Stir in the asparagus pieces and sauté for another 4-5 minutes, until they start to soften but still retain some crunch.

        Incorporate Spinach and Tomatoes: Add the chopped spinach and cherry tomatoes to the pot, cooking until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes begin to soften, about 3 minutes.

          Combine with Pasta: Return the cooked pasta to the pot. Pour in the lemon juice and zest, stirring everything to combine. If the mixture seems too dry, add some of the reserved pasta water a little at a time until reaching your desired consistency.

            Season to Taste: Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for an extra kick. Mix well to ensure even flavor distribution.

              Serve: Divide the pasta among plates, sprinkling with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

                Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

                  - Presentation Tips: Serve in shallow bowls, garnished with fresh basil leaves, a sprinkle of lemon zest, and a few extra cherry tomato halves for color. A drizzle of olive oil can also enhance the visual appeal. Enjoy your vibrant and healthy green pasta dish!