Linguine With Fresh Asparagus
Linguine with fresh asparagus and a flavorful mustard dressing offers a light, vibrant meal perfect for spring gatherings or quick weeknight dinners. Bright, savory, and satisfying.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook asparagus in a small amount of water in a saucepan for 3 minutes.
- Drain the asparagus and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
- Combine mustard, olive oil, chopped onion, minced garlic, thyme, anchovy paste, and minced parsley in a bowl; mix well to make the dressing.
- Cook linguine according to package directions until al dente.
- Drain the linguine and transfer to a serving bowl.
- Add the asparagus and dressing to the linguine, tossing gently to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream to the dressing. If you're out of grainy mustard, Dijon can be used as a substitute, though it will alter the flavor slightly. Fresh herbs like basil or chives can add a nice touch instead of parsley. To enhance the dish, you might sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top, which pairs beautifully with the asparagus.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish warm or at room temperature. It makes a fantastic light main course or a side dish for grilled meats. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a simple green salad or a protein like grilled chicken or shrimp. This dish can also complement Italian recipes beautifully, providing a fresh taste alongside heavier options.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or water to prevent drying out. If the pasta seems too dry, a bit of broth can also help revive it.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Linguine With Fresh Asparagus contains roughly 1083 calories, with 3g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 116g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (56% of the Daily Value) and iron (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1802mg per serving (78% 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 use frozen asparagus instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen asparagus, but be aware that it may have a softer texture after cooking. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before combining it with the linguine to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
How do I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make this linguine dish vegetarian, simply omit the anchovy paste. You can add additional flavor by incorporating capers, which will provide a salty kick and enhance the overall taste without compromising the dish's integrity.
What can I substitute for linguine?
You can substitute linguine with other types of pasta such as fettuccine, spaghetti, or even whole wheat varieties for a healthier option. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.
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).