PASTA WITH GOAT CHEESE AND ROASTED ASPARAGUS

Pasta with Goat Cheese and Roasted Asparagus image

Yield serves 4

Number Of Ingredients 6

2 bunches asparagus (2 pounds), tough ends removed
5 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Coarse salt and freshly ground pepper
12 ounces cavatappi or other short pasta shape
5 ounces fresh goat cheese, crumbled
2 to 3 tablespoons snipped fresh chives, for garnish

Steps:

Preheat oven to 450°F. Place asparagus on a large rimmed baking sheet; dot with 2 tablespoons butter, and season with salt and pepper. Roast until tender, tossing occasionally, 10 to 15 minutes. Remove from oven and cut into 2-inch lengths.
Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water to a boil; add a generous amount of salt. Cook pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1 1/2 cups pasta water; drain pasta, and return to the pot.
In a bowl, combine goat cheese, remaining 3 tablespoons butter, and 1/2 cup reserved pasta water. Season with salt and pepper, and whisk until smooth.
Add goat-cheese mixture and asparagus to pot; toss with pasta to combine, adding enough additional pasta water to create a thin sauce to coat pasta. To serve, divide among shallow bowls, and garnish with chives.