Creamy Asparagus Pasta

8 oz. uncooked linguine or spaghetti

½ lb. asparagus, sliced in 1 ½-inch pieces

1 c. green peas, frozen, thawed

1 T. tub margarine

1 garlic clove, minced

1 c. reduced sodium vegetable broth

1 T. cornstarch

2/3 c. half and half, fat free

3 T. fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)

¼ t. freshly ground black pepper

dash of ground red pepper

coarsely ground black pepper (optional)

lemon slices (optional) 


Cook pasta according to package directions, omitting salt and fat. Add asparagus during last two minutes of cooking time. Place peas in a colander. Drain pasta mixture over peas and set aside.  Melt margarine in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic to pan.  Sauté 1 minute. Combine broth and cornstarch in a small bowl.  Stir until well blended and add to melted margarine. Bring to a boil. Cook 1 minute, stirring constantly.  Remove from heat. Stir in half and half, juice, black pepper and red pepper. Add pasta mixture to broth mixture.  Toss gently to coat. Garnish with coarsely ground black pepper and lemon slices, if desired. Serve immediately.


Makes 7 - 1 cup servings.

Nutrition Information: 180 calories; 3 g fat; 0 mg cholesterol; 60 mg sodium; 32 g carbohydrates; 3 g fiber; 7 g protein.


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