Whole Wheat Penne w/Asparagus, Ham, and Basil (WW)

Here is another great Weight Watchers recipe I wanted to share with all of you. They have been having asparagus on sale every week at the grocery store, which is great for me because it is one of my favorite veggies. I am learning all different ways to use it in our dinners. This dish has your whole grains, protein, and veggies so some fresh chopped fruit would be all you would want or need. Hope you like this dish.

Whole Wheat Penne w/Asparagus, Ham, and Basil
Serves: 4 to 6
Adapted by: http://www.food.com/recipe/penne-with-asparagus-ham-and-basil-weight-watchers-412211

Ingredients:
2 cups whole wheat OR whole grain Penne pasta
2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
1 large tomato, coarsely chopped
3 cloves of garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 pound asparagus, trimmed to 2 inch lengths
1 cup reduced sodium chicken broth
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 pound lean ham, cubed or diced
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
3 tablespoons reduced fat grated parmesan cheese

Directions:

Prepare the pasta according to the package directions.

Meanwhile, heat the oil in a large nonstick pan, over medium-high heat. Add the tomato, garlic, and red pepper flakes; cook stirring occasionally until the tomato is softened, about 5 minutes. Add the asparagus, broth and lemon juice; bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until the asparagus is tender, about 3 minutes longer.

Add the pasta, ham, basil and parmesan to the pan; toss to combine.

Serve

Enjoy! :)