Asparagus, tomato & chilli pasta

Name: Asparagus, Tomato, and Chilli Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 300g pasta of your choice; 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small red chili, sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped fresh basil for garnish

Treat yourself to a taste of spring with this vibrant asparagus, tomato, and chili pasta. Fresh asparagus spears are sautéed until tender, then tossed with juicy cherry tomatoes and a hint of chili for a kick of heat. Combined with al dente pasta and finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, this dish is a celebration of seasonal flavors and simplicity. Whether enjoyed as a quick weeknight meal or served as part of a festive gathering, this pasta is sure to impress with its bright colors and delicious taste!

350g dried orecchiette* or penne pasta
2 tbs olive oil
1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 4cm pieces
2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
1-2 (to your taste) small red bird’s eye chillies, deseeded and finely chopped
250g tomato medley**, halved lengthways
40g rocket leaves, trimmed
75g feta, crumbled
Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling

STEP 1 Cook pasta in a large saucepan of boiling water, following packet directions, until al dente.

STEP 2 Meanwhile, heat oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add asparagus, garlic and chillies and cook, stirring often, for 3-4 minutes until asparagus is almost tender. Toss through tomatoes.

STEP 3 Drain pasta. Add pasta to asparagus mixture and toss over low heat. Gently toss through rocket, sprinkle with feta and season with pepper. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil to serve.

Nutritional Facts

Asparagus: Rich in vitamins A, C, K, and folate.
Tomatoes: High in vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene.
Chilli: Contains capsaicin and vitamin C.
Pasta: Provides carbohydrates and some protein.