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Asparagus and Leek Lemon Pasta is a family friendly recipe that you can have on the table in half an hour. This no frills weeknight dinner has simple, spring flavors and stays skinny with whole wheat pasta and a light cheese sauce. | theeverykitchen.com

Asparagus and Leek Lemon Pasta

Asparagus and Leek Lemon Pasta is a family friendly recipe that you can have on the table in half an hour. This no frills weeknight dinner has simple, spring flavors and stays skinny with whole wheat pasta and a light cheese sauce. 

Course Main
Cuisine American
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 370 kcal
Author Danielle Cushing

Ingredients

  • 1/2 pound whole grain penne
  • 1 bunch thin asparagus trim and discard bottom 2-3 inches, the remainder cut into 1-inch long pieces
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 leek ends trimmed, with light green and white parts quartered and thinly sliced
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup 2% milk room temperature
  • 1/2 tablespoon freshly grated lemon zest
  • 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 4 ounces soft goat cheese I used herbed goat cheese
  • 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano
  • Lemons for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta according to package directions. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the pasta to a large bowl. Let the water return to a full boil and add the asparagus, cooking until just tender and still bright green, about 3 minutes. Drain the asparagus and add it to the pasta.
  2. Meanwhile, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the leek and saute until aromatic and soft, about 4 minutes. Whisk in the flour until it disappears, about 1 minute. Add the milk, lemon zest, nutmeg, salt, and pepper and let simmer, whisking occasionally until thick, about 4 minutes. Add the cheeses, whisking until melted and the sauce is smooth.

  3. Pour the sauce over the pasta and asparagus and toss until evenly coated. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice if desired and garnish with lemon wedges.