Light, creamy, and bursting with fresh flavor, this Cashew Butter Asparagus Pasta with Lemon is a true summer favorite. Made with rich and savory Spread The Love Cashew Butter, tender roasted asparagus, and bright citrus notes from lemon zest and juice, this pasta dish elevates simple ingredients into an unforgettable meal. Whether you're looking for a vibrant lunch, a weeknight dinner, or a dish to impress guests, this recipe hits all the marks with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Cashew Butter Pasta
This cashew butter pasta recipe delivers a delicious balance of creamy, zesty, and savory flavors that’s perfect for warmer weather and beyond. Thanks to the use of Spread The Love Cashew Butter, this sauce has a velvety richness without ever feeling heavy. The roasted asparagus adds a tender crispness, complemented by aromatic garlic, Italian seasoning, and a squeeze of lemon that brightens every bite.
This pasta dish is ideal for:
Quick but impressive weeknight dinners
Seasonal spring and summer meals
Celebratory brunches or casual gatherings
Nut butter lovers seeking unique pasta recipes
By emphasizing fresh and wholesome ingredients — from lemon to asparagus to cashew butter — this recipe also pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or light white wine for a complete meal.
INGREDIENTS
- 8 oz. Fettuccini Pasta
- ¼ cup Olive Oil
- 2 tbsp. Spread The Love® BASIC Cashew Butter
- 2 cloves Fresh Garlic
- 1 tsp. dried Italian Seasoning
- 1 tsp. Salt
- Pinch Red Pepper Flakes
- Juice from ½ a lemon
- 2 tbsp. chopped parsley
- ¼ cup fresh Parmesan Cheese
For the Asparagus:
- 1 bunch Asparagus spears, cut into 1-2” pieces
- 1 tbsp. Olive Oil
- Salt & Pepper to taste
- 1 tsp. Lemon Zest
- 4 Lemon Slices
INSTRUCTIONS
✔ Step 1 - Preheat & Prepare
Preheat your oven to 425° F and line a baking sheet with foil. Chop the asparagus into 1–2” pieces, discarding the woody ends for the best texture.
✔ Step 2 - Roast the Asparagus
Drizzle the asparagus with olive oil, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly. Spread into a single layer and top with lemon slices. Roast for 10–15 minutes until tender but still bright green — this brings out sweet, roasted flavor without overcooking.
✔ Step 3 - Cook the Pasta
While the asparagus is roasting, boil the fettuccini according to package directions until al dente — tender but with a bite. Reserve pasta water if you want to loosen the sauce later.
✔ Step 4 - Make the Creamy Cashew Butter Sauce
In a large bowl, whisk together:
Olive oil
Minced garlic
Italian seasoning
Salt
Red pepper flakes
Fresh lemon juice
Whisk until smooth, creamy, and fully combined.
✔ Step 5 - Combine & Toss
Once the pasta is cooked, use tongs to transfer it directly into the bowl with the cashew butter lemon sauce. Add the roasted asparagus, and toss everything until the pasta is well coated in the creamy mixture. Add reserved pasta water as needed to adjust the texture.
✔ Step 6 - Serve & Garnish
Divide onto plates and finish with fresh parsley, a sprinkle of parmesan, and an extra wedge of lemon on the side. Serve immediately and savor the bright, creamy flavor.
Tips for Best Results
- Don’t overcook the asparagus: You want it tender but still vibrant and slightly crisp.
Reserve pasta water: A couple of tablespoons of starchy water can help the cashew butter sauce cling more smoothly to the noodles.
Add protein: Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or chickpeas boost the meal’s protein content without changing core flavors.
Parmesan alternatives: For dairy-free versions, try nutritional yeast or vegan parmesan.
Flavor & Serving Ideas
This pasta pairs beautifully with Mediterranean side dishes like:
Arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
Garlic bread with fresh herbs
Grilled seasonal vegetables
A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio
- The bright citrus and savory cashew butter make this recipe versatile enough for lunch, dinner, or even casual indoor picnics.
What Makes This Recipe Special
Unique use of cashew butter for a creamy, rich sauce that’s both indulgent and wholesome.
Seasonally inspired ingredients like asparagus and lemon create bold, fresh flavor.
Simple process without complicated techniques — perfect for cooks of all levels.
Customizable and satisfying — great for family meals or entertaining.
This Cashew Butter Asparagus Pasta with Lemon strikes the perfect balance of creamy and bright, hearty yet fresh. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll enjoy a pasta dish that feels gourmet but is easy enough for any night of the week. Whether you're a seasonal cook who loves spring and summer produce or a pasta lover searching for a new favorite, this recipe delivers.
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