Ingredients

  • 8 ounces penne or 8 ounces ziti pasta
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 shallots, finely chopped (you can substitute a clove of garlic and some chopped onion if you don't have shallots)
  • 2 cups prepared tomato sauce
  • 2/3 cup half-and-half or 2/3 cup plain soymilk
  • 2 lbs thin asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1/2 in. pieces
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried tarragon
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper

Method

  • Bring large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add pasta; stir to prevent sticking. Cook pasta until just tender, according to package directions, about 10 minutes. Drain well.
  • Meanwhile, in large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add shallots and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, 6 to 7 minutes.
  • Stir in tomato sauce and half-and-half or soymilk, increase heat to high and bring to a boil. Add asparagus and tarragon and reduce heat to low. Partially cover and cook until asparagus are tender and sauce is slightly thickened, 10 to 12 minutes.
  • Add pasta to asparagus mixture along with salt and pepper. Toss until well coated. Serve hot.