Elegant Penne with Asparagus and Shrimp

Recipe View Prepare your ingredients: Chop the shallots, mince the garlic, cut the asparagus, and ensure the shrimp are peeled and deveined. (5 minutes)

Recipe View Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water. (10 minutes)

Recipe View Sauté aromatics: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped shallots and sauté until fragrant and softened, about 3-5 minutes. Be careful not to brown the garlic. (5 minutes)

Recipe View Deglaze with wine: Pour in the white wine and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the alcohol to evaporate slightly and the sauce to reduce. (3 minutes)

Recipe View Add asparagus and seasoning: Stir in the crushed red pepper flakes, butter, and asparagus pieces. Cook until the asparagus is tender-crisp, about 3-5 minutes. (5 minutes)

Recipe View Cook the shrimp: Add the shrimp and lemon juice to the skillet. Cook until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through, about 3-5 minutes per side, depending on their size. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp. (5 minutes)

Recipe View Combine and finish: Toss the cooked penne pasta with the shrimp and asparagus mixture. Add a splash of the reserved pasta water if needed to create a light sauce that coats the pasta. Season with salt and pepper to taste. (2 minutes)

Recipe View Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese before serving immediately. Enjoy! (1 minute)