Asparagus Pasta With Toasted Pecans

I recently had a back log of southern living magazines waiting for me to go through. When i came across this pasta recipe, i just knew it was one i couldn't let get away without trying. I am posting it here so i will always know where to find it! This dish makes a great main course or side dish. I prepared this dish as soon as i had all the ingredients on hand and i have to say, it is as delicious as it sounds! This is a very easy recipe to add your desired amount of chicken or shrimp, if you like. i hope you think it looks as tempting as i did ; )!!

Steps

Prepare pasta according to package direction.

Rinse and drain.

Snap off tough ends of asparagus , and slice into 2-inch pieces.

Saut asparagus in hot oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

4 minutes.

Stir in red bell pepper and garlic.

Cook , stirring occasionally , for an additional 2 minutes.

Stir in chicken broth and bring to a boil.

Reduce heat , and simmer 2 minutes or until asparagus is crisp-tender.

Stir in salt and pepper.

Toss together pasta , asparagus mixture , basil , 1 / 2 cup cheese , butter and 1 / 2 cup pecans.

Sprinkle evenly with remaining 1 / 4 cup cheese and 1 / 2 cup pecans.

Garnish if desired.

Serves 6.

Ingredients

penne pasta, fresh asparagus, olive oil, red bell pepper, garlic, low sodium chicken broth, salt, pepper, fresh basil, parmesan cheese, butter, pecan halves, fresh ground pepper