Farfalle with Asparagus and Smoked Salmon

Ingredients

• 1 package of Farfalle pasta
• 1 bunch of fresh asparagus
• 1 package of pre-sliced smoked salmon
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup of olive oil
• 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the farfalle to the pot and cook according to package instructions.
3. While the pasta is cooking, prepare the asparagus by cutting off the ends and discarding them. Cut the asparagus into 1/2 inch pieces.
4. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently.
5. Add the asparagus to the skillet and cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Add the smoked salmon and red pepper flakes to the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
7. Drain the farfalle and add it to the skillet. Stir in the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve the farfalle with the asparagus and smoked salmon topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Interesting Facts

• Farfalle is the Italian word for butterfly, which is what the pasta resembles.
• Smoked salmon is a delicacy that has been enjoyed for centuries.
• Asparagus is an excellent source of dietary fiber, vitamins A, C, and K.