Pasta With Truffle Sauce & Roasted Asparagus Recipe

"This couldn't be any easier. Six simple ingredients is all it takes. Now, truffle butter is something you can find pretty easily these days. My main grocery store carries it; as well as Walmart too. They run anywhere from $10-30 per container, depending on the brand. Williams Sonoma, Whole Foods, a variety of specialty shops; and, online carry it too. This is a very rich dish; so, I usually just top it with some roasted or sauteed asparagus spears. I keep it pretty simple. On the side; a very simple green salad is all you need. YES, it is NOT a cheap dish; but, it is one of those special dishes you can entertain with. Or, perfect for a special night with your date, husband, significant other, etc. Sometimes, it is nice to splurge. FYI - If you can use fresh pasta, all the better; but, not necessary. I think originally this was an Ina Garten recipe; but, I have found it on many sites, with many variations."

Step by Step Method

Step 1

Pasta ... Note: I like fresh pasta; but, a good dried pasta is just fine. Tagliatelle is a wide 'eggy' pasta which works best for this dish. Make sure to always cook your pasta in plenty of salted water according to package directions; whether it is fresh or dried. So, cooking time listed, depends on whether you use fresh or dried pasta.

Step 2

Asparagus ... For the asparagus, I simply saute them with a little olive oil, salt and pepper, just until tender. They take just a few minutes. This can also be done on a grill pan; under the broiler, or in oven too. You want them - tender, but crisp. How you cook them, is up to you.

Step 3

NOTE: I don't like the pencil thin or the real thick asparagus. The pencil thin just falls apart; and, the thicker needs to be peeled down. Try to pick a medium thickness - tender spear.

Step 4

Pasta and Finish ... This is the easiest dish ever. Once the pasta is cooked; drain well (reserving some of the pasta water). Return the pasta to the pot, along with the truffle butter, cream; and toss to combine. I also like to add just a splash of the pasta water, a couple of tablespoons. Then, season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5

Serve and ENJOY! ... Add most of the cheese to the pasta, toss; and, plate. Top with the asparagus spears (as many as you like), extra cheese shavings; and garnish with chives. On the side, I mentioned, a nice simple green salad. I think that is all that is needed. It is rich and decadent; but, definitely worth it. It isn't a weeknight dish; but, definitely fun for a special night; or, to entertain with.