A Little More Than Pasta Carbonara

1. 1

   - Bring a large pot of water to a boil, add salt to taste, then add pasta.

2. 2

   Chop onion into thin slices.

3. 3

   Cut off ends of asparagus and discard.

4. 4

   Cut each stalk into 1-inch pieces on a diagonal.

5. 5

   Heat olive oil in large saute pan over medium high heat.

6. 6

   Add garlic and red pepper flakes to oil, cook until garlic begins to brown (less than one minute).

7. 7

   Add onion to saute pan and season with salt and pepper.

8. 8

   Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.

9. 9

   Add shrimp or chicken (cut into 1-inch cubes) to pan and season with salt and pepper.

10. 10

    Shrimp should only be cooked about 30 seconds per side (rule: until they turn pink).

11. 11

    Chicken should cook about 2 minutes per side or until completely cooked through.

12. 12

    Add sun dried tomatoes and asparagus and cook for 2-3 minutes.

13. 13

    In a large bowl (and I do mean large) combine the pasta with the sauteed veggies and shrimp/chicken.

14. 14

    Add the mascarpone cheese and mix to combine.

15. 15

    Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and ground pepper and enjoy a taste of heaven!

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.