Penne Pasta with Asparagus, Spinach, and Bacon

This penne pasta toss, featuring asparagus, spinach, and bacon, comes together in a snap on busy weeknights.  It’s pretty yummy!

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces uncooked penne pasta
• 2 bacon slices
• 1/2 cup chopped sweet onion
• 2 1/2 cups (1-inch) slices asparagus (about 1 pound)
• 1 1/2 cups fat-free, less-sodium chicken broth
• 4 cups bagged baby spinach leaves
• 1/2 cup (2 ounces) pre-shredded Parmesan cheese, divided
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Preparation

1. Cook pasta according to the package directions, omitting salt and fat. Drain; keep warm.
2. Cook bacon in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat until crisp. Remove bacon from pan; crumble.
3. Add onion to drippings in pan; sauté 1 minute.
4. Add asparagus and broth to pan; bring to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer 5 minutes or until asparagus is crisp-tender.
5. Add pasta, spinach, 1/4 cup cheese, and pepper to pan; toss well.
6. Sprinkle with remaining 1/4 cup cheese and bacon.

ENJOY!

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