Toasted Pecan & Asparagus Penne Pasta

Asparagus Pasta with Toasted Pecans

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Servings: 6

If you’re looking for a fresh, delightful pasta dish that combines vibrant vegetables with the rich, nutty crunch of toasted pecans, this Asparagus Pasta with Toasted Pecans recipe from Southern Living is a perfect choice. 🌟 It’s an easy, yet elegant dish that’s ideal as a main course or a satisfying side. With a creamy and aromatic blend of ingredients, this dish can be effortlessly adapted to include chicken or shrimp if you prefer a heartier meal.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating this delectable pasta dish that promises to impress family and friends alike.

Ingredients:

1 pound penne pasta
1 bunch fresh asparagus
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 red bell pepper, finely diced
1 clove garlic, minced
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
3 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided
2 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup pecan halves
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
1/2 cup pecan halves for garnish

Instructions:

Cook the Pasta: Begin by cooking the penne pasta according to the package directions. Once cooked, rinse under cold water and drain well. Set aside.
Prepare the Asparagus: While the pasta is cooking, prepare the asparagus by snapping off the tough ends and cutting the stalks into 2-inch pieces.
Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the asparagus pieces and sauté for about 4 minutes, or until they begin to soften.
Add Red Bell Pepper and Garlic: Stir in the diced red bell pepper and minced garlic, cooking and stirring occasionally for an additional 2 minutes until the vegetables are tender and fragrant.
Simmer with Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 2 minutes, or until the asparagus is crisp-tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine with Pasta: Stir in the cooked pasta, fresh basil, and 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese. Add the butter and continue to toss until everything is well combined and the butter has melted.
Add Pecans: Gently fold in 1/2 cup of the pecan halves, giving the pasta a delightful crunch.
Serve: Transfer the pasta to a serving dish or individual plates. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese and 1/2 cup of pecan halves on top for a beautiful presentation and extra flavor.
Garnish if Desired: For an added touch, garnish with extra fresh basil or a few more pecans if you like.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Calories: 534.7
Fat: 25.7g
Saturated Fat: 6.5g
Cholesterol: 21.2mg
Sodium: 628.6mg
Carbohydrates: 66.6g
Fiber: 11.1g
Sugar: 2.3g
Protein: 13.9g

Enjoy this delightful Asparagus Pasta with Toasted Pecans, which is sure to be a hit at your next meal! Whether you’re serving it as a hearty main course or a delectable side dish, this recipe promises to add a touch of elegance and flavor to your dining table. 🥂