Tomato Pasta Salad

Ingredients

• 1 package bow tie pasta (16 ounce)
• 1 pound fresh asparagus
• basket of cherry tomatoes,washed
• basil for garnish

Salad Dressing

• 3/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt
• 1/4 teaspoon Pepper

Directions

1. Cook bow tie pasta according to package directions, drain and set aside into a salad bowl. Let cool.

Prepare the Asparagus

1. Cut and discard the tough woody ends of the asparagus. Cut away any blemishes and wash thoroughly. Cut asparagus into lengths about 1 - 1 1/2 inches. Put the tops (also called crowns) to one side. Have a pot of boiling, salted water ready, drop the asparagus pieces into the boiling water and cook 5 minutes then add the tops/crowns and continue cooking until tender - another 5 minutes.
2. Drain and set aside to cool.

Salad Dressing

1. Mix together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt and pepper.Pour the dressing over cooked pasta and gently toss in.
2. Cut the tomatoes in halves and add to the pasta.
3. Add the cooked asparagus. Lightly toss together.
4. Taste and adjust seasonings if desired.
5. Chop basil and garnish.
6. Can be served immediately or chilled for later.