Asparagus Penne Recipe

Ingredients for Asparagus Penne

• Penne Pasta
• Olive Oil
• Garlic Clove
• 1 pound Asparagus spears
• Cherry Tomatoes
• Frozen Peas
• Vegetable Stock
• Parmesan Cheese
• Fresh Basil Leaf

How to Make Asparagus Penne

1. Bring a large pot of salted water (about 6 quarts) to a rolling boil over high heat.
2. Add 1 pound penne pasta and cook according to package directions, until al dente (about 8-10 minutes), stirring occasionally.
3. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta.
4. While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Add 2 cloves minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
6. Add 1 pound asparagus spears (trimmed) and season with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until tender-crisp.
7. Add 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes and 1/2 cup frozen peas to the skillet.
8. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until tomatoes begin to soften.
9. Pour in 1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option) and bring to a simmer.
10. Simmer until the tomatoes have burst and the sauce has slightly reduced, about 3-5 minutes.
11. Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the asparagus mixture.
12. Stir in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese.
13. Toss to combine, adding a little reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
14. Garnish with the remaining 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves (about 1/4 cup, chopped). Serve immediately.