This comforting pasta dish combines the earthy sweetness of fresh asparagus with the tangy depth of rehydrated sun-dried tomatoes. Bowtie pasta holds the delicate vegetable mixture perfectly, while cubes of smoked mozzarella add a rich, savory smoke flavor and creamy texture. It’s a quick, satisfying meal that feels gourmet but is simple enough for a weeknight dinner. The combination of fresh thyme, garlic, and olive oil creates an aromatic base that elevates the simple ingredients. Serve it warm for a hearty lunch or let it cool for a refreshing cold pasta salad.
Pasta W/ Smoked Mozzarella, Asparagas & Dried
Description
This comforting pasta dish combines the earthy sweetness of fresh asparagus with the tangy depth of rehydrated sun-dried tomatoes. Bowtie pasta holds the delicate vegetable mixture perfectly, while cubes of smoked mozzarella add a rich, savory smoke flavor and creamy texture. It&# 226;ÂÂs a quick, satisfying meal that feels gourmet but is simple enough for a weeknight dinner. The combination of fresh thyme, garlic, and olive oil creates an aromatic base that elevates the simple ingredients. Serve it warm for a hearty lunch or let it cool for a refreshing cold pasta salad.Ingredients
Directions
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Soak dried tomato strips in 1 cup of warm water for 3-5 minutes until they begin to soften.
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Drain the tomatoes and reserve the soaking liquid.
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Heat a large saucepot of water to a rolling boil.
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Add the asparagus pieces to the boiling water and cook for 3 minutes until tender but still crisp.
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Remove the asparagus with a slotted spoon, place in a bowl, and set aside.
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In the same pot of boiling water, cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente.
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While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
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Reduce heat to low, add the chopped garlic, and sauté for 3 minutes until fragrant.
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Stir in the reserved tomato soaking liquid, cooked asparagus, thyme leaves, and salt.
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Cook the vegetable mixture for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
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Drain the cooked pasta and return it to the pot.
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Toss the hot pasta with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
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Place the pasta on a serving platter and top with the tomato-asparagus mixture.
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Scatter the smoked mozzarella cubes over the top.
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Serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 5.4kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 0.1g1%
- Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 1.5mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 1.2g1%
- Dietary Fiber 0.4g2%
- Sugars 0.8g
- Protein 0.3g1%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
To serve cold, allow the dish to cool to room temperature, cover, and refrigerate until ready to serve.
If you cannot find smoked mozzarella, regular mozzarella or provolone can be used, though the smoky flavor will be absent.
Ensure asparagus is cut into uniform pieces for even cooking.
