Asparagus Pasta: Mint Ricotta Pesto Recipe

Asparagus pasta with mint ricotta pesto: Prepare to be amazed! This isn’t just another pasta dish; it’s a vibrant celebration of spring flavors that will dance on your palate. Imagine twirling strands of perfectly cooked pasta coated in a creamy, herbaceous pesto, studded with tender asparagus spears. It’s a symphony of textures and tastes that’s both comforting and invigorating.

While pesto’s origins trace back to Genoa, Italy, where basil reigns supreme, this variation takes a delightful detour. The addition of fresh mint and creamy ricotta cheese elevates the traditional pesto to new heights, creating a lighter, brighter sauce that perfectly complements the earthy asparagus. It’s a modern twist on a classic, and trust me, it works wonders!

People adore this asparagus pasta with mint ricotta pesto for its simplicity and elegance. It’s quick enough for a weeknight meal but impressive enough to serve to guests. The combination of the slightly bitter asparagus, the cool mint, the rich ricotta, and the nutty Parmesan creates a flavor profile that’s both complex and incredibly satisfying. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra greens! Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this asparagus pasta with mint ricotta pesto recipe is guaranteed to become a new favorite.

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine work best)
• 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-2 inch pieces
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese, preferably whole milk
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, packed
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Optional: Red pepper flakes for a touch of heat
• Optional: 2 tablespoons pasta water

Preparing the Mint Ricotta Pesto

Okay, let’s get started with the heart of this dish – the vibrant and flavorful mint ricotta pesto! This isn’t your traditional basil pesto; the mint and ricotta add a creamy, fresh twist that perfectly complements the asparagus.

1. Toast the Pine Nuts: This step is crucial for bringing out the nutty flavor of the pine nuts. You can toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are golden brown and fragrant. Watch them carefully, as they can burn quickly! Alternatively, you can toast them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. Once toasted, set them aside to cool slightly.
2. Combine Ingredients in a Food Processor: In the bowl of a food processor, combine the toasted pine nuts, fresh mint leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and ricotta cheese.
3. Process Until Smooth: Pulse the food processor a few times to coarsely chop the ingredients. Then, with the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil until the pesto comes together and is relatively smooth. You might need to scrape down the sides of the bowl a few times to ensure everything is evenly incorporated. Don’t over-process it; you want a little bit of texture.
4. Season to Taste: Add the lemon juice, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to the pesto. Pulse a few more times to combine. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add a little more lemon juice for brightness, more salt for flavor, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away!
5. Set Aside: Once the pesto is to your liking, set it aside while you prepare the pasta and asparagus.

Cooking the Pasta and Asparagus

Now, let’s move on to cooking the pasta and asparagus. The key here is to cook the asparagus until it’s tender-crisp – you want it to have a slight bite, not be mushy. And, of course, perfectly al dente pasta is a must!

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Remember to reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy water is liquid gold and will help create a creamy sauce.
2. Cook the Asparagus: While the pasta is cooking, you can cook the asparagus in a couple of ways. My preferred method is to blanch it in the same pot of boiling pasta water during the last 2-3 minutes of the pasta’s cooking time. This saves time and infuses the asparagus with a bit of the pasta’s starchy flavor. Alternatively, you can steam the asparagus for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s tender-crisp. You can also sauté it in a pan with a little olive oil for about 5-7 minutes.
3. Drain and Reserve: Once the pasta is cooked al dente and the asparagus is tender-crisp, drain them both well. Remember to reserve that pasta water!

Assembling the Dish

Alright, we’re in the home stretch! This is where all the individual components come together to create a delicious and satisfying meal.

1. Combine Pasta, Asparagus, and Pesto: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, asparagus, and mint ricotta pesto. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
2. Add Pasta Water (Optional): If the sauce seems too thick, add a tablespoon or two of the reserved pasta water at a time, tossing until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. The pasta water will help emulsify the sauce and create a creamy, luscious texture.
3. Season Again: Taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add a little more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
4. Serve Immediately: Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with extra grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes is also a nice touch if you like a little heat.

Tips and Variations

This recipe is a great starting point, but feel free to customize it to your liking! Here are a few ideas:

• Add Protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon would be delicious additions to this pasta dish.
• Use Different Vegetables: If you don’t have asparagus on hand, you can substitute other vegetables like peas, zucchini, or broccoli.
• Try Different Herbs: Basil, parsley, or chives would also work well in the pesto.
• Make it Vegan: Use vegan ricotta cheese and Parmesan cheese alternatives to make this dish vegan.
• Add Lemon Zest: A little lemon zest will enhance the citrus flavor.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pesto or sprinkle them on top of the finished dish for a touch of heat.

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (which is unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pesto might dry out a bit, so you might want to add a little extra olive oil or lemon juice when reheating.

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this delicious and easy asparagus pasta with mint ricotta pesto! It’s a perfect weeknight meal that’s sure to impress. Bon appétit!

Conclusion:

This Asparagus Pasta with Mint Ricotta Pesto isn’t just another pasta dish; it’s a vibrant celebration of spring flavors that will brighten up your dinner table. The creamy ricotta, the bright mint, and the tender asparagus all come together in perfect harmony, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and surprisingly light. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try because it’s quick, easy, and packed with fresh, seasonal ingredients. It’s the kind of meal you can whip up on a busy weeknight or serve to impress guests at a weekend brunch.

But the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! Feel free to experiment with different variations to suit your taste. For a richer flavor, try adding toasted pine nuts or walnuts to the pesto. If you’re feeling adventurous, a squeeze of lemon juice or a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a delightful zing. You could even swap out the asparagus for other seasonal vegetables like peas, zucchini, or broccoli. The possibilities are endless!

Serving Suggestions:

This pasta is delicious on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is always a good choice. Grilled chicken or fish would also complement the dish nicely, adding a protein boost. For a vegetarian option, consider serving it with a side of roasted vegetables or a crusty loaf of bread for soaking up all that delicious pesto.

Variations to Explore:

* Lemon Zest Boost: Add the zest of one lemon to the pesto for an extra layer of citrusy brightness.
* Nutty Crunch: Toast 1/4 cup of pine nuts or walnuts and add them to the pesto for a delightful textural contrast.
* Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pesto for a subtle hint of heat.
* Vegetable Swap: Substitute the asparagus with other seasonal vegetables like peas, zucchini, or broccoli.
* Cheese Please: Sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese on top before serving for an even cheesier experience.
* Protein Power: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to the pasta for a more substantial meal.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the magic of fresh, seasonal flavors. I’ve poured my heart into creating a dish that’s both delicious and easy to make, and I truly believe you’ll love it.

Now, it’s your turn! Head to the kitchen, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece. Don’t be afraid to experiment and put your own spin on the recipe. After all, cooking is all about having fun and expressing your creativity.

Once you’ve made this amazing asparagus pasta, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your photos and stories on social media using #AsparagusPastaPerfection. Let me know what variations you tried and what you thought of the dish. Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me continue to create recipes that you’ll love. Happy cooking! I can’t wait to see what you create!