Shelly's Recipe

Spicy Ham and Asparagus Pasta Toss

Category: Pasta - Meat

2 cups dry mini penne
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
3/4 to 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 tablespoon chopped garlic
1 pound fresh pencil-thin asparagus, rinsed and cut in 1-inch pieces
1 cup ham, chopped
1 cup grape tomatoes, sliced
1/2 cup dry white wine
1/4 cup shredded parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper to taste

Cook the pasta according to package directions. When al dente, drain well.

While pasta is cooking, heat oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high. Add pepper flakes, garlic, asparagus, ham and tomatoes. Stir and cook until ham is beginning to brown and asparagus is crisp-tender. Deglaze pan with wine and reduce heat to low.

When pasta is done, add it and parmesan to ham and toss to mix. Season well with salt and pepper. Serve immediately.

Makes 4 servings.