Spaghetti With Asparagus
A creamy, flavorful spaghetti dish featuring tender asparagus, ham, and Parmesan, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner with rich and fresh flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat butter and olive oil in a 1-quart saucepan over medium-high heat.
- Add sliced onion and sauté until golden without browning.
- Add chopped ham and sauté briefly.
- Add asparagus, water, and chicken bouillon cube; reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook spaghetti in rapidly boiling salted water until al dente, about 5 to 6 minutes.
- Drain the spaghetti well.
- Return the drained spaghetti to the pot.
- Add the asparagus mixture and half and half; cook over medium-low heat until warmed through.
- Top with Parmesan cheese and pepper before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting the butter with more olive oil or using a plant-based butter. You can also replace the half and half with a non-dairy milk for a vegan option. If you want to add protein, grilled chicken or shrimp can complement this dish nicely. To enhance the flavor, a squeeze of lemon juice or zest can brighten the dish, similar to other Italian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this spaghetti dish with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A glass of white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, pairs beautifully with the asparagus and Parmesan. You can also sprinkle additional Parmesan on top before serving for extra flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to prevent the pasta from drying out. Heat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaghetti With Asparagus contains roughly 552 calories, with 14g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 49g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (28% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 574mg per serving (25% 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 other vegetables in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute or add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on how long each vegetable takes to become tender.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free spaghetti to make this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet. Many brands offer delicious alternatives that will work well with the sauce and asparagus.
What can I serve with Spaghetti With Asparagus?
This dish pairs well with a light salad, such as arugula with lemon vinaigrette, or a hearty soup like Italian White Bean And Kale Soup. For a more filling meal, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or shrimp.
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).