Asparagus Pasta with Pesto
Description
This pasta comes together very quickly, especially if you already have the pesto made. I usually add a protein to this dish, making it into a complete meal. Depending on what I have on hand, smoked chicken is great in this dish, and so is ham. If you want to keep it vegetarian, a cheese like feta would be delicious. You can also make as is and maybe add sun-dried tomatoes for a little color--be creative with this one!
Ingredients
Instructions
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Prepare fresh pesto sauce, if making.
Fill a large pasta pot with fresh, well-salted water. I've heard that you should salt your pasta water to the level of sea water. This seems excessive to me, but make sure it's well salted. Bring water to a boil.
In the meantime, slice the asparagus.
When the water comes to a boil, add the pasta and cook according to the directions. Add the asparagus for the last minute (maybe 90 seconds if you like your asparagus a little more tender). Drain pasta and asparagus and return the pot.
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Add meat protein if using and add pesto sauce--turn heat to low and toss to coat the pasta, asparagus and protein. If using feta cheese, toss to coat the pasta and asparagus, turn heat off, and then add feta.
Serve with a salad, or as a stand alone as a complete meal. Enjoy with a crisp rose!
