
This light and refreshing pasta dish combines the playful shape of wagon wheel pasta with tender asparagus and a bright lemony sauce. Originating from simple Italian-inspired weekday meals, it offers a cheerful presentation that appeals to both kids and adults. The recipe is versatile, allowing either a tangy lemon-based sauce or a ready-made lemon cream, making it adaptable for pantry convenience. Topped with cheese, it balances brightness and richness, making it a go-to spring or summer meal that’s both comforting and elegant.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups asparagus (cut into ½-inch pieces)
- ½ cont Puccio’s Bel Lemone sauce ( or juice of 1 fresh lemon)
- 12 oz wagon wheel pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil ( or margarine)
- ½ cup cheese (grated, Parmesan or Romano recommended)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook Asparagus
- Heat olive oil or margarine in a skillet. Add asparagus and sauté until nearly tender, about 5–6 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare Pasta
- Cook wagon wheel pasta according to package directions. Drain well.
Step 3: Add Sauce
- If using Bel Lemone sauce, stir into asparagus and warm through.
- If using fresh lemon, drain pasta and add directly to asparagus. Toss together, then add lemon juice.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Add pasta to skillet with asparagus mixture. Toss well to coat. Sprinkle with cheese. Serve warm.
Tips
- Use whole-wheat wagon wheels for higher fiber.
- Add white beans or chickpeas for extra protein.
- Substitute broccoli or peas if asparagus is unavailable.
- Add red pepper flakes for heat.
- Finish with fresh basil, parsley, or lemon zest for brightness.
- Use butter instead of olive oil for richer flavor.
- Make it dairy-free by omitting cheese or using vegan parmesan.
- Toss in grilled chicken or shrimp if a non-vegetarian version is desired.
- Reserve some pasta water to loosen the sauce, if needed.
- Top with toasted breadcrumbs for crunch.
Nutrition
Calories: 340kcalCarbohydrates: 56gProtein: 12gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.7gMonounsaturated Fat: 3.5gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 120mgPotassium: 290mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 18mgCalcium: 110mgIron: 2.5mg
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

