Description

This salad will definitely be a hit at your next gathering. It's fresh tasting and light. You may just want to add dressing to half of it at a time to keep it nice and fresh. Feel free to add a little garlic and balsamic for added flavor, if you wish.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 lb. fresh asparagus, trimmed, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 T. plus 1/2 c. olive oil, divided
• 1/4 t. salt
• 1 1/2 lb. penne pasta, uncooked
• 3/4 c. chopped green onions
• 6 T. white wine vinegar
• 2 T. soy sauce
• 6 oz. package fresh baby spinach
• 1 c. coarsely chopped cashews*
• 1/2 c. shredded Parmesan cheese

Steps

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
2. Place asparagus in a 13 x 9 inch baking dish; drizzle with 2 T. oil; sprinkle with salt. Bake, uncovered, for 8-10 minutes or until crisp-tender, stirring after 5 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, cook pasta in well salted boiling water according to package directions, about 10-13 minutes; drain.