After a long, exhausting weekday, you probably need a serotonin boost. That’s when a simple yet nutritious meal can save the day. One of my go-to dishes for such moments is the elegantly crafted Campanelle Pasta with asparagus, lemon, and parmesan. The savory depth of nutritional yeast, the zesty brightness of lemon, and the crisp texture of asparagus harmonize perfectly, transforming a mundane weekday into a culinary retreat.
The first time I encountered this dish was during a spring break at my aunt’s. She walked in with a bag of pasta, fresh lemons, and asparagus, giving a knowing smile that promised a meal beyond the ordinary. I anticipated a long cooking process, but in just 15 minutes, the dish was served. In that moment, it felt as though we were sophisticated patrons in a five-star restaurant, savoring a refined meal, as the gentle spring breeze enhanced the ethereal atmosphere.
My aunt told me that this campanelle noodles was a dish meant for spring, and I wholeheartedly agreed. Whether you’re winding down from a taxing day or simply rewarding yourself with something decadent, this dish never disappoints. It’s a meal that feels exquisite without the effort, elevating a simple evening into something remarkably indulgent.
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Campanelle Pasta Recipe
For 2 Servings
- Author: Chris
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 7 asparagus spears, chopped into 1-2 inch pieces
- 1/2 box of campanelle pasta (approximately 4 oz)
- Handful of fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup hummus
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- Garlic powder, to taste
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Nutritional yeast, for garnish (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Red chili flakes, to taste
How to Make Campanelle Pasta:
- Cook the pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the campanelle pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.
- Sauté garlic and asparagus: While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped asparagus, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until the asparagus becomes tender but still has a bit of crunch.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the spinach to the skillet and cook for another minute until wilted. Lower the heat, then stir in the hummus and reserved pasta water, creating a creamy sauce. Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Mix it all together: Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the sauce, stirring to combine. Squeeze in the juice of half a lemon, mix well, and remove from heat.
- Serve and garnish: Plate the pasta and sprinkle nutritional yeast, fresh parsley, and red chili flakes as desired.
Notes:
- Vegan option: If you'd like to make vegan campanelle pasta recipes, you can swap parmesan for more nutritional yeast, or use a dairy-free parmesan substitute for that same nutty and cheesy flavor.
- Balance the flavors: Taste the sauce before adding all the lemon juice. Depending on your preference, you may want to add more or less lemon juice to strike the right balance between the tanginess and the savory elements.
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 370mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Side Dishes to Serve with Campanelle Pasta:
- Garlic Bread: A classic pairing with any pasta dish, garlic bread adds a delicious, crunchy contrast to the fresh, zesty flavors of the pasta.
- Simple Arugula Salad: A light salad made with arugula, olive oil, lemon juice, and shaved Parmesan complements the brightness of the lemon in the pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes for a warm, flavorful side that adds extra depth to the meal.
- Grilled Chicken: For added protein, grilled chicken seasoned with herbs or lemon pairs beautifully with the flavors of the pasta.
- Bruschetta: Top toasted baguette slices with fresh tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze for a refreshing appetizer that enhances the pasta’s citrusy taste.
So there you have it—ho-la! You’ve finished your Campanelle Pasta with Asparagus, Lemon, and Parmesan without breaking a sweat. Now, sit back, turn on your favorite show, and enjoy a truly chill date night. Am I right? This is the perfect dish to treat yourself with!
And never miss the chance to experience a 5-star restaurant at home with Tales Of A Kitchen, where you’ll find every world-class recipe made easy!
PrintCampanelle Pasta Recipe: A Weeknight Bliss
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 Servings 1x
- Category: Main Dishes
Description
Immersed in the tangy, creamy, and crispy flavors of the signature Campanelle Pasta. Time to treat yourself with this simple recipe from Tales of A Kitchen!
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 7 asparagus spears, chopped into 1-2 inch pieces
- 1/2 box of campanelle pasta (approximately 4 oz)
- Handful of fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup hummus
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- Garlic powder, to taste
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Nutritional yeast, for garnish (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the campanelle pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.
- Sauté garlic and asparagus: While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped asparagus, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until the asparagus becomes tender but still has a bit of crunch.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the spinach to the skillet and cook for another minute until wilted. Lower the heat, then stir in the hummus and reserved pasta water, creating a creamy sauce. Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Mix it all together: Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the sauce, stirring to combine. Squeeze in the juice of half a lemon, mix well, and remove from heat.
Serve and garnish: Plate the pasta and sprinkle nutritional yeast, fresh parsley, and red chili flakes as desired.
Notes
- Vegan option: If you'd like to make vegan campanelle pasta recipes, you can swap parmesan for more nutritional yeast, or use a dairy-free parmesan substitute for that same nutty and cheesy flavor.
Balance the flavors: Taste the sauce before adding all the lemon juice. Depending on your preference, you may want to add more or less lemon juice to strike the right balance between the tanginess and the savory elements.
Nutrition
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 370mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 0mg