Pasta With Plum Tomatoes And Asparagus
A vibrant pasta dish featuring fresh plum tomatoes and tender asparagus, accented with garlic, red pepper, and Parmesan for a light, flavorful meal perfect for spring and summer evenings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blanch the asparagus until tender, then set aside.
- Sauté chopped onion and crushed garlic in oil until fragrant.
- Add chopped plum tomatoes and white wine to the sautéed onion and garlic.
- Cook the mixture on low heat for about 5 minutes.
- Add a pinch of crushed red pepper and salt to taste.
- Boil water and cook the pasta until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and toss it in a bowl.
- Add the cooked tomato mixture and asparagus to the pasta.
- Stir in 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or zest to brighten the dish. If plum tomatoes are not available, substitute with diced canned tomatoes. Fresh asparagus can be swapped for green beans or broccoli if desired. Make sure to cook the pasta just until al dente to retain its texture. Pair this dish with a side salad for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pasta warm, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and freshly cracked black pepper. This dish pairs beautifully with a light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside garlic bread or a fresh green salad to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the pasta on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pasta With Plum Tomatoes And Asparagus contains roughly 1423 calories, with 11g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 132g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2395mg per serving (104% 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, frozen asparagus can be used in this recipe. Just ensure to thaw it and drain any excess water before adding it to the pasta. However, fresh asparagus will provide a better texture and flavor.
What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Any pasta shape will work, but spaghetti or penne are excellent choices as they hold the sauce well. You can also use whole grain or gluten-free pasta if preferred.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! To make this recipe vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with a vegan cheese alternative. Nutritional yeast can also be sprinkled on top for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
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).