Introducing the delectable Asparagus Splendida – a pasta recipe that’s been a hit ever since its creation, marrying the delightful crunch of fresh asparagus with a medley of flavors that dance on your taste buds with each bite. 🍝
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 bunches fresh asparagus
- 6 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 8 cloves garlic
- 1 1/2 cups button mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 cup prosciutto, diced
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh oregano, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 4 plum tomatoes, diced
- 3/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
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Prep Asparagus: Begin by rinsing the asparagus thoroughly, then snap off the tough ends and discard them. Cut the remaining asparagus spears into 3/4-inch lengths and place them in a bowl of cold water, setting it aside for later use.
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Sauté Garlic: In a large frying pan, heat the butter and olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté it for about 3 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
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Cook Asparagus: Drain the soaked asparagus and add it to the frying pan with the garlic. Cover the pan and cook the asparagus for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
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Add Mushrooms and Prosciutto: Once the asparagus is slightly tender, add in the sliced button mushrooms, diced prosciutto, chopped basil, oregano, and rosemary. Mix the ingredients well and continue to cook covered until the asparagus reaches the desired crisp-tenderness, approximately 5 minutes. Remember not to overcook the vegetables – you want them to retain their vibrant colors and textures.
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Incorporate Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in the diced tomatoes, salt, and black pepper, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the dish. Let the mixture simmer for an additional 3 minutes, stirring occasionally to meld the flavors. If the mixture appears too dry, you can add a bit more butter for moisture.
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Prepare Spaghetti: While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add a tablespoon of salt and two tablespoons of olive oil to the boiling water. Then, carefully add the spaghetti to the pot and cook it uncovered according to the package instructions, typically for about 12 to 15 minutes or until it’s al dente – firm to the bite but cooked through.
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Combine Pasta and Sauce: Once the spaghetti is cooked to perfection, drain it well and transfer it to a large serving bowl. Pour the prepared sauce over the spaghetti, tossing everything together to ensure each strand is coated in the flavorful mixture.
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Final Touch: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and gently toss once more to incorporate it throughout the dish, adding a final layer of savory goodness.
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Serve and Enjoy: With everything beautifully combined, serve the Asparagus Splendida immediately, delighting in its vibrant colors, enticing aromas, and tantalizing flavors that are sure to impress even the most discerning palates. 🌟
This recipe serves as a testament to the harmonious fusion of fresh ingredients and aromatic herbs, resulting in a dish that’s as visually stunning as it is palate-pleasing. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a comforting meal, this Asparagus Splendida is bound to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Cheers to good food and great company! 🥂
