Ingredients:
1 lb of asparagus
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 cup plus 2tbsp balsamic vinegar
1/2 tsp brown sugar
1lb penne
1/4 pound butter (I use less)
1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese.
Directions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Trim the tough bases of the asparagus and disregard. Cut the rest of your asparagus into 1inch pieces. Put them in the baking sheet, toss with olive oil, 1/4 tsp of each salt and pepper. Roast until tender (10 min)
2. Meanwhile, put the vinegar in a small saucepan and simmer until 3 tablespoons remain. Stir in brown sugar and remaining pepper. Remove from heat.
3. Cook the penne in a large pot until tender (13-15 min). Drain the pasta and toss with butter, vinegar, salt, and asparagus. Serve topped with parmesan cheese.
Tips:
1. For more flavor on the asparagus, also toss in garlic powder before roasting.
2. I use freshly grated parmesan cheese.
3. For a sweeter balsamic sauce, double the brown sugar.
4. To break up the brown sugar, use a whisk.