Penne With Asparagus, Ham, and Basil (Weight Watchers)

Chesska's Note:

Only 6 WW points for 1 3/4 cups serving!

• Total Time: 35 mins
• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 20 mins

Ingredients:

Servings: 4

• 2 cups penne
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 large tomato, coarsely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 lb asparagus, trimmed to 2 inch lengths
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 lb ham, cubed
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 3 tablespoons parmesan cheese, grated

Directions:

1. Prepare the pasta according to the package directions.
2. 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.
3. Add the pasta, ham, basil and parmesan to the pan; toss to combine.

Reviews

[Deeder's Kitchen]

This was just okay for my family. I used 1 can of diced tomatoes and also added about 3-4oz of tomato paste. I also reduced the chicken broth to 2/3 cup adding 1/3 at first and more as needed. The sauce turned out nicely. Son gave it 4stars and husband gave it 3 because he thought it would be better with bigger pieces of meat.

[PSU Lioness]

This was just okay for me but my husband and son loved it. I was expecting the sauce to thicken up a little bit but it stayed kind of watery, especially after I added the chicken broth. I thought maybe it would reduce but it just seemed to get more watery. I think next time I will add less chicken broth and maybe some no-salt added tomato paste to get a thicker sauce that will cling to the pasta. I also thought it was pretty spicy but I'm kind of a wimp when it comes to that stuff. But like I said, it was a HUGE hit with my husband and 11 year-old son so I'm sure I will be making it again. And I loved that it was a filling meal that wasn't loaded with fat and calories. Thanks for posting!

[willsmom]

we liked this! Even my 9 yr old gobbled it up. Asparagus and all! The fresh basil really adds to the flavor!