Lemon Asparagus Pasta
This appetizing asparagus pasta dish is flavored with lemon zest and lemon juice. It's easy to make and can sit out during warm weather. Can be served hot, warm, or cold. 
penne pasta
1
(16 ounce) package
fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
1
pound
lemon, zested and juiced
1
large
grated Parmesan cheese
1
cup
olive oil
½
cup
salt to taste
freshly cracked black pepper to taste
 Fill a large pot with lightly salted water and bring to a boil. Stir in penne and return to a boil. Cook pasta uncovered, stirring occasionally, for about 8 minutes. Penne will still be slightly firm.
  Stir asparagus into the pot with the boiling penne pasta and bring back to a boil; cook until pasta is al dente and asparagus is tender-crisp but still bright green, about 3 more minutes. Drain pasta and asparagus.
  Place penne and asparagus into a large bowl; lightly stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, salt, and black pepper until thoroughly combined.
