Lemon, Garlic, and Asparagus Warm Caprese Pasta Salad

When fresh asparagus starts showing up in the stores and farmers' markets, you know it's time to make a fresh pasta dish inspired by the classic Italian salad of tomatoes and fresh basil. Add an optional sliced chicken breast to turn the warm salad into a perfect light lunch.

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Fill a large pot with lightly salted water and bring to a boil. Stir in penne and return to a boil. Cook pasta uncovered, stirring occasionally, until cooked through but still firm to the bite, about 11 minutes; drain.

Place asparagus into a saucepan, add a little water, and place over medium heat; cover pan and let asparagus steam until bright green and tender, 3 to 4 minutes. Drain.

Heat olive oil with butter and lemon juice in a large saucepan over medium-low heat until butter melts; cook and stir shallot in hot oil and butter mixture until it just begins to soften, 1 to 2 minutes. Stir garlic into shallot mixture and cook until shallot and garlic are opaque, 3 more minutes. Stir asparagus and chicken into mixture; cook until heated through, about 5 minutes.

Toss pasta with chicken and vegetables to combine; mix tomato and basil into salad and serve warm.

Lemon, Garlic, and Asparagus Warm Caprese Pasta Salad

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