Penne with tomatoes, asparagus and goat cheese

This pasta salad calls for penne, but you can use any pasta you have on hand.

This recipe calls for penne, but you can use any type of pasta you like.

Ingredients (SERVES 2)

1/3 pound whole-wheat penne pasta
1 cup chopped asparagus, 1-inch pieces
1 tablespoon water
1/2 cup halved cherry tomatoes
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil, plus whole leaves for garnish
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 ounces goat cheese

Directions

Fill a large pot 3/4 full with water and bring to boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions. Drain the pasta.

While the pasta is cooking, put the asparagus and water in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat the asparagus on high power until tender-crisp, about 3 minutes.

In a bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, basil, garlic and pepper. Add the asparagus, pasta and goat cheese and toss until well mixed. Place in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes to cool.

Divide the pasta between the plates. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve.