A light yet satisfying pasta dish featuring tender shells, crisp asparagus, and rich marinara sauce. Perfect for *easy weeknight dinners* and *healthy comfort food* that comes together in just 15 minutes.
1bunchasparagus, trimmed and cut into 1½-inch pieces
2cupsmarinara sauce
1tbspolive oil
1smallonion, finely chopped
2clovesgarlic, minced
0.5tspred pepper flakes (optional)
to tastesalt and freshly ground black pepper
0.25cupgrated Parmesan cheese
2tbspchopped fresh basil or parsley
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta shells until al dente according to package instructions. Drain, reserving ½ cup of cooking water.
Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add asparagus pieces, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for 4–5 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
Stir in marinara sauce and simmer for 2–3 minutes to heat through and meld flavors.
Add drained pasta shells to the skillet, tossing to combine. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time if sauce needs loosening.
Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until creamy and well combined.
Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes as desired.
Serve garnished with fresh basil or parsley and extra Parmesan cheese, while hot.
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