Fettuccine And Asparagus In Parmesan Sauce
Creamy fettuccine with tender asparagus and mushrooms, accented by Parmesan and Ricotta cheeses, ideal for a quick, flavorful vegetarian dinner or lunch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute mushrooms and garlic in margarine for about 2 minutes.
- Stir in asparagus and set aside.
- In a small bowl, combine egg and Ricotta cheese and mix until smooth.
- Add skim milk to the egg mixture and stir well.
- Cook fettuccine according to package instructions and drain.
- Combine cooked pasta with the mushroom and asparagus mixture.
- Pour the egg and cheese mixture over the pasta and toss gently to coat.
- Add Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper to taste, and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine. If you want a creamier sauce, you can replace part of the skim milk with heavy cream. If asparagus is out of season, zucchini or green beans make excellent substitutes. To save time, pre-sliced mushrooms are a great option. This dish is reminiscent of classic Italian recipes, making it a delightful choice for a cozy dinner.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the fettuccine and asparagus in Parmesan sauce with a side of garlic bread or a light salad for a complete meal. A sprinkle of fresh herbs, like basil or parsley, adds a touch of freshness. This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk to prevent the sauce from drying out. Microwave on medium power or warm gently on the stove, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fettuccine And Asparagus In Parmesan Sauce contains roughly 712 calories, with 16g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 57g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (51% of the Daily Value), vitamin D (34% of the Daily Value), and protein (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1279mg per serving (56% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is already vegetarian-friendly. Ensure that the Parmesan cheese you use is made without animal rennet for a fully vegetarian dish. You can also add more vegetables, such as bell peppers or spinach, for added nutrition and flavor.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you're looking for a non-dairy option, nutritional yeast provides a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Alternatively, pecorino Romano or Grana Padano can be used for a similar taste profile. Just keep in mind that these substitutes may alter the final flavor slightly.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply use gluten-free fettuccine or any gluten-free pasta of your choice. Ensure that all other ingredients, especially the sauces and cheeses, are certified gluten-free to avoid any cross-contamination.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).