Asparagus Pasta

I've been making this pasta dish for years. The whole family loves it because it is light, flavorful, and offers different variety from the typical pasta with red sauce combo. I love making this meal because seeing asparagus on sale during the last few weeks of winter and first few weeks of spring reminds me that the end of the cold is in sight. 

Asparagus Pasta

(Slightly modified from Lion House Lite Recipes)

1 package (8-12 ounces) bowtie pasta

1 pound fresh asparagus

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

2 dashes hot sauce

1/4 cup olive oil

1 Tablespoon butter

salt to taste

1/4 teaspoon pepper

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Cook pasta according to directions on the package, drain and set aside.

Cut asparagus into 1 1/2 inch pieces. Combine garlic, red pepper flakes, and hot sauce with oil and butter in a frying pan. Saute over medium heat for 2-3 minutes. Stir in asparagus, salt, and pepper and continue cooking, stirring frequently until asparagus is tender-crisp. This will usually take about eight minutes. Place pasta in serving bowl and pour asparagus over pasta. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and toss to combine.