Asparagus, Mushroom, & Mascarpone Pasta

This creamy pasta dish is the perfect way to celebrate the season, combining tender asparagus and earthy mushrooms with a luxurious mascarpone sauce. It's quick enough for a weeknight meal but feels special enough for a weekend brunch.

Yields: 2-3 servings

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 8 oz your favorite pasta

• 1 large shallot, finely diced

• 1 bunch asparagus, tough ends trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces

• 8 oz your choice of mushrooms, sliced

• 8 oz mascarpone cheese

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Salt, to taste

• Black pepper, to taste

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• Crushed red pepper flakes, to taste

• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Directions

1. Get the Pasta Going: Bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a rolling boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the starchy pasta water.

2. Sauté the Shallots: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or deep pan over medium heat. Add the diced shallot and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes, until softened and fragrant.

3. Add the Asparagus: Stir in the bite-sized asparagus pieces and continue to cook for another 3 to 4 minutes, or until they become tender-crisp.

4. Introduce the Mushrooms: Now, add your sliced mushrooms to the pan. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and begin to soften.

5. Combine and Create the Sauce: Drain your cooked pasta (remembering to reserve that pasta water!). Add the cooked pasta directly to the skillet with the asparagus and mushroom mixture.

6. Melt the Mascarpone: Add the mascarpone cheese to the pasta and vegetable mixture. Slowly begin to add the reserved pasta water, a splash at a time, stirring continuously. The hot pasta water will help the mascarpone melt and create a smooth, creamy sauce that coats every strand of pasta. Continue adding water until your desired sauce consistency is reached.

7. Season and Serve: Season the pasta generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Give it a good stir to ensure all the flavors are well distributed.

8. Garnish and Enjoy! Ladle the creamy pasta into bowls. If desired, sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for an extra zing. Serve immediately and savor every delicious bite!