Asparagus Spaghetti

Are you looking for a different way to fix asparagus? Something that not just roasted, steamed or stir-fried? Or maybe you’re tired of zucchini & looking for a different pasta substitute?

As with many of my recipes, I tried something new & it worked!

I generally don’t eat pasta and I was looking for a way to enjoy the fresh asparagus we’ve been harvesting for about a month now. I was also hankering for spaghetti-like something or other. So I followed the inspiration I received, experimented & combined the two.

I had to stop myself from having a third helping as it was delicious to say the least. I’m also glad I took a picture so I could share it with you!

This recipe, like most of my recipes are super simple and lend themselves well to variation so I’ve added in some notes. But as a chef once told me “A recipe is just one person’s opinion on how to make something,” so feel free to make changes as you see fit.

It only takes about 20 minutes total time & serves 4 people. If you’re looking for a recipe to help you eat well so you can live the happy, active, vibrant life God is calling you to, then I invite you to try this one. It’s one you’ll enjoy again & again!

Ingredients

• 2-3 bunches (about 12 oz each) asparagus
• 1 lb ground meat of choice
• 1 jar spaghetti/marinara sauce of choice
• 1-2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese per person

Directions

1. Brown the Meat
   Place ground meat in a large skillet and brown on medium heat, chopping every few minutes.

2. Prepare the Asparagus
   While the meat is browning, chop asparagus into 1-inch chunks.

3. Combine Ingredients
   Add asparagus and spaghetti sauce to the browned meat. Cover and cook until the meat is fully cooked and the asparagus reaches your desired tenderness.

4. Serve and Enjoy
   Top with parmesan cheese and enjoy!

Julie’s Notes

• Meat Options
  Use any kind of ground meat, including sausages. Make sure the flavor complements the sauce. (Chorizo might work, but it depends on your taste!)

• Other Protein Options
  Try chopped or shredded chicken, pork, beef, or turkey. Adjust cooking times if the meat is already cooked or raw. (This is a great way to use leftover meat!)
  For a vegetarian twist, use tofu, canned & rinsed chickpeas, black beans, or butterbeans.

• Cheese Options
  Substitute any shredded cheese if desired. For dairy-free options, Daiya Shreds works well. Follow Your Heart offers a great dairy-free parmesan. Or simply leave the cheese out.

• Flavor Enhancements
  Add green onions or your favorite herbs & spices (parsley, oregano, basil, thyme, marjoram, rosemary, fennel seeds, coriander, cilantro) for extra flavor.

• Vegetable Substitutes
  Substitute or add other vegetables like green beans, cauliflower, broccoli, peppers, peas, snap or snow peas, lettuce, or spinach.
  Note: Frozen asparagus works too, but may require longer cooking and might release more water.

• Sauce Options
  Use any spaghetti or marinara sauce, or make your own when tomatoes are fresh.