Spaghetti with Asparagus

Servings: 4 to 6 » Preparation: 10 mins » Cooking: 10 mins » Level: Easy
Ingredients:
  • 1 lb (500 g) g asparagus spears, tough parts of the stems removed
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 shallots finely chopped
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 2/3 cups (400 g) tomato passata (sieved tomatoes)
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley
  • 1 lb (500 g) spaghetti
  • 1/4 cup (30 g) freshly grated mild Pecorino or other mild firm cheese

Procedure:
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat
  2. Cook the asparagus in a large pot of salted water until tender, 5-7 minutes
  3. Drain and chop, reserving 3 or 4 spears to garnish
  4. Heat the oil in a large frying pan over medium heat
  5. Add the shallots and saute until tender, 2-3 minutes
  6. Add the chopped asparagus and season with salt and pepper
  7. Stir in the tomatoes and parsley
  8. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring from time to time, until the sauce thickens
  9. Meanwhile, cook the pasta in the boiling water until al dente
  10. Drain and add to the frying pan
  11. Toss over high heat for 1 minute
  12. Sprinkle with cheese and garnish with the reserved asparagus
  13. Serve hot