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Sometimes it is hard to find an asparagus recipe that isn't smothered in white sauce. I was so excited when I found this recipe because it has asparagus and is better for you than most pastas.

Healthy Meals Monday: Penne with Balsamic Chicken and Roasted Asparagus

Also seen on Six Sister's Stuff

Ingredients

1    asparagus ( 1 bunch )
1    tablespoon    olive oil
2    teaspoons    salt
1/2    teaspoon    black pepper
1/2    cup    balsamic vinegar ( plus 2 tablespoons )
1/2    teaspoon    brown sugar
1    cup    chicken breast ( cooked and cut up )
14 1/2    ounces    whole wheat penne pasta
1/4    cup    butter
1/3    cup    parmesan cheese, grated

Directions

Heat the oven to 400°. Cut the tough ends off the asparagus and discard them. Cut the spears into 1-inch pieces. Put the asparagus on a baking sheet and toss with the oil and 1/4 teaspoon each of the salt and pepper. Roast until tender, about 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, put the vinegar in a small saucepan. Simmer until 3 tablespoons remain. Stir in the brown sugar and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Remove from the heat.
Cook the penne in a large pot of boiling, salted water until just done, about 13 minutes. Drain the pasta and toss with the butter, vinegar, asparagus, Parmesan, chicken and the salt. Serve with additional Parmesan.

Adapted from Food and Wine