Beef & Asparagus Pasta Toss - cooking recipe

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
2 cups uncooked bow tie pasta
1 lb fresh asparagus, cut into 1 inch pieces
3 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 cup minced shallot (about 2 large)
2 cloves garlic, minced
salt and pepper
1/4 cup shredded parmesan cheese (optional)

Preparation

Cook pasta in boiling salted water 10 minutes or until almost tender.
Add asparagus; continue cooking 3 to 4 minutes or until pasta and asparagus are tender.
Drain well.
Meanwhile brown ground beef in large non-stick skillet over medium heat 8 to 10 minutes or until beef is not pink, breaking up into 3/4 inch crumbles.
Remove from skillet with slotted spoon.
Pour off drippings.
Heat oil in same skillet over medium heat until hot.
Add shallots and garlic; cook 3 to 4 minutes or until tender, stirring frequently.
Remove from heat.
Add beef; toss to mix.
Season with salt and pepper, as desired.
Combine beef mixture with pasta and asparagus in large bowl; toss well.
Sprinkle with cheese, if desired.