Asparagus Pasta

Step 1

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 8 oz fusilli and cook until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.

Step 2

While the pasta cooks, trim the woody ends from the 1 lb asparagus and cut into 2-inch pieces. Heat the 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Step 3

Add the asparagus and 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the asparagus is bright green and tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 4

Add the drained pasta to the skillet along with 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water. Toss to combine, letting the sauce thicken slightly, about 1-2 minutes.

Step 5

Remove from heat and stir in the 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese. Season with salt to taste and serve immediately, topped with extra cheese if desired.