Penne, Asparagus and Shrimp

This hearty and healthy recipe is not only very easy but can be made on short notice, either for a quick dinner or when company is coming. All you'll need for the main ingredients are shrimp, pasta and asparagus. You can even substitute linguini, if penne is not in your pantry, or skip the pasta entirely and serve with a side salad and bread.

Penne with Asparagus and Shrimp

• 1 C penne pasta
• 2 TBSP olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 C onion, chopped
• 1/2 C white wine
• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 TBSP butter
• 1 lb asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 bag fresh shrimp (I used medium)
• 1 TBSP lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 TBSP chopped fresh flat leaf parsley or basil
• 1/4 C grated Parmesan/Romano cheese

1. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add penne and cook until al dente (8-10 minutes) then drain.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Stir in garlic and onion and cook until onion has softened (about 5 min. or less). 
3. Pour in white wine and simmer for 2 minutes CAUTION: turn down the heat BEFORE adding the wine or it will splatter (as I learned first-hand).
4. Stir in red pepper flakes, butter and asparagus; cook until asparagus is just tender (about 4-5 min.).
5. Add shrimp and lemon juice, continue cooking until shrimp have turned pink and no longer translucent in center. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Toss cooked pasta with shrimp and asparagus mixture. Sprinkle with parsley and cheese. Serve and enjoy! 
   
   Yes, Grenville declared this recipe a "keeper."