Go Back
–+ servings
The Wagon Wheel Asparagus Spokes Dish
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.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian, Mediterranean
Servings 4
Calories 340 kcal

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
Keyword asparagus, easy dinner, lemon pasta, quick meal, spring recipe, vegetarian pasta, wagon wheel pasta, weeknight dinner
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!