ASPARAGUS PASTA SALAD

Asparagus Pasta Salad image

Provided by Pat Duran

Categories Salads

Time 15m

Number Of Ingredients 9

15 oz can green giant asparagus,cut in 2-inch pieces
1 Tbsp butter
3 medium red ripe tomatoes, diced chunky
15 oz box linguine,cooked al dente, drained
salt, pepper and onion powder to taste
2 Tbsp lemon juice
1/4 c garlic flavored olive oil
1/2 c pecorino romano cheese, grated
1/4 c french fried onion rings,optional

Steps:

1. Empty asparagus and juice in a bowl, using kitchen shears cut in 2 inch pieces, set aside. Prepare pasta according to package directions, cooking to al dente stage , about 7 minutes. Drain and rinse slightly , leave setting in strainer until ready to use.
2. Place asparagus in the empty pasta pot with its juice and bring to heat through only add 1 Tablespoon of butter to pot. Place pasta in a large serving bowl, using tongs place asparagus pieces on the pasta and 3 Tablespoons of the liquid, and the tomatoes toss with tongs gently. Salt, pepper, and onion powder to taste,mix gently. Add the cheese and drizzle on the olive oil and lemon juice, toss again. Sprinkle onions on top. Enjoy warm or cold. Enjoy!
3. If desired a can of tuna, or cooked bacon chopped or diced cooked chicken may be added.