Penne with Mushrooms and Asparagus  | 
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                                            Prep Time: 8 Minutes Cook Time: 15 Minutes  | 
                                            Ready In: 23 Minutes Servings: 5  | 
                                         
                                        
                                     
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                    Vary this recipe by adding chicken or lean steak for a protein-packed pasta dish. Ingredients: 
                    
                        
                                                8 ounces uncooked penne pasta  |  
                                                1 tablespoon olive oil  |  
                                                1 (3.2-ounce) package shiitake mushrooms  |  
                                                1/2 cup sliced shallots  |  
                                                3 garlic cloves, minced  |  
                                                1 (14-ounce) can vegetable broth  |  
                                                1 pound asparagus spears, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces  |  
                                                1/2 teaspoon salt  |  
                                                1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper  |  
                                                1/2 cup (2 ounces) shredded asiago cheese  |  
                                                1/4 cup chopped fresh basil  |  
                                                
                     
                    Directions: 
                    
                        
                            
                                1. Cook pasta according to package directions, omitting salt and fat. Drain and keep warm. 2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add mushrooms, shallots, and garlic; sauté 5 minutes 3. Add broth, asparagus, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Simmer, uncovered, 5 minutes or until asparagus is tender. 4. Combine pasta and asparagus mixture; sprinkle with cheese and basil, tossing well. Serve immediately.                              | 
                         
                         
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