Penne Pasta with Asparagus and Pine Nuts

Worth more than a penne.

Penne Pasta with Asparagus and Pine Nuts
Inspired by Epicurious

Ingredients:

1 bunch Asparagus, trimmed and chopped to about 1 inch long
1/2 lb. Penne Pasta
2 T. Unsalted Butter
2 T. Olive Oil
3 T. Pine Nuts

1/2 t. Salt

1/4 t. Pepper

1/4 t. Red Pepper Flakes

1/4 C. Parmigiano-Reggiano

Directions:

Cook pasta in boiling salted water until al dente.  

Meanwhile, heat butter and oil in a large heavy skillet over medium heat, add pine nuts and cook, stirring, until golden, 1 to 2 minutes.  Add asparagus, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper, then saute over medium-high heat until tender and lightly browned, about 4 minutes.

Drain pasta and add to skillet, tossing with Parmigiano-Reggiano.