Spring Pasta with Cashew Alfredo and Roasted Asparagus

Source: In Pursuit of More http://inpursuitofmore.com/2013/04/25/recipe-spring-asparagus-pasta-w-vegan-alfredo-sauce/

(1) bunch fresh asparagus
(1-2) tbsp olive oil
(1) pinch of salt
(3) cups dry pasta of choice, cooked according to package directions
(1-2) cups alfredo sauce, recipe below
(2-3) leaves fresh basil, slices into ribbons (optional)
black pepper as desired

Start by heating the oven to 425 degrees. Lightly oil a flat baking tray with a little oil and set aside. Rinse the asparagus under cold water and trim off the rough bottom edges (about 1-2 inches). Toss the cut asparagus in a bowl with a tablespoon of oil or so and some optional salt.

Lay the asparagus spears flat on the baking try and place in the pre-heated oven. Cook for 12 – 15 minutes until browning. Remove from the oven and allow to cool before using as is or cutting into halves lengthwise to add to your pasta & sauce.

Once the asparagus is in the oven, put up some water to boil for the pasta. Cook the pasta, drain, and set aside until the sauce and asparagus is ready.

 The Alfredo Sauce:

~ adapted from Silvers Hills Kitchen

Combine all ingredients except for the dried basil in a blender and blend until smooth, letting the blender run a full minute or two to ensure the cashews are well blended. Alternatively, you can start with 1/2 the water and add the remainder after the first 30 seconds or so of blending.

Pour the blended mixture into a saucepan and bring to a slow boil, stirring as you go here and there. Once rthe sauce is bubbling and thick, add the basil and remove from the heat.

To serve this dish, combine the cooked pasta and a cup or so of the prepared sauce in a wok or larger saucepan. Add sauce as desired and taste for salt. Toss the hot sauce with freshly cooked pasta until desired sauce coating is reached, and the mixture is hot.

Serve immediately by arranging the pasta either in individual bowls or on a platter and top with roasted asparagus, basil ribbons, fresh pepper and additional olive oil if desired (I always desire olive oil).