Heirloom Tomato, Asparagus, Bow Tie Pasta
 
Prep time
Cook time
Total time
 
Author:
Serves: 6
Ingredients
  • 1 pound box bow tie pasta, cooked al dente
  • 1 bunch asparagus
  • 1½ cups cooked ham, chopped
  • 1 pound grape tomatoes, sliced in half
  • ⅓ cup parsley, choppped
  • ½ cup parmesan cheese, grated
Ingredients for the dressing:
  • ½ cup good extra-virgin olive oil
  • ½ large lemon, juiced
  • 1 Tbs. dijon mustard
  • ½ tsp. salt
  • ¼ tsp. fresh ground pepper
  • If you really like lemon, you can also add ½ tsp. lemon zest!
Instructions
  1. In a large pot of salted water, cook your noodles al dente according to the package. Make sure to drizzle some oil into the water so your noodles don't stick! Drain and set aside.
  2. Meanwhile, cut your asparagus into 2 inch pieces. In a large pot of boiling water, cook your asparagus for 2-3 minutes. Don't overcook them! You want them crisp. Remove the asparagus with a slotted spoon and immediately put into a bowl of ice water. You've just "blanched" your asparagus :-) (Blanching, is perfect for green vegetables, because it helps preserve the flavor, crisp texture, and bright green color.)
  3. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, combine the lemon juice, mustard, salt, pepper and optional lemon zest. While whisking, slowly add in your olive oil.
  4. In a large bowl, combine your pasta, asparagus, ham, parsley, cheese and dressing. Mix well. Fold in your tomatoes. Salt & pepper to taste. Serve with an extra sprinkle of parmesan! Bon Appétit!
Recipe by Vixen's Kitchen at https://www.vixenskitchen.com/heirloom-tomato-asparagus-bow-tie-pasta/