Chicken Penne Pasta with Asparagus

Spring is here, time for asparagus!

3 c Whole wheat penne pasta

3 c  Chopped asparagus (about 1 bunch)

2 T Olive oil

20 oz  Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1 inch cubes)

4 Cloves garlic

1-28 oz Can diced tomatoes

4 T  Parmesan cheese

Cook pasta according to package directions. In a small pot, bring 1 inch of water to a boil.  Add the asparagus, cover and steam until tender.  Meanwhile, heat olive oil in skillet over medium heat.  Sauté garlic and chicken until chicken is no longer pink.  Add tomatoes with juice, simmer for 1 minute. Combine cooked pasta, steamed asparagus and chicken mixture in large pot.  Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.

Serves 8.  Per approximate 1 1/2 cup serving:  288 calories, 6 g fat, 1 g saturated fat, 43 mg cholesterol, 416 mg sodium, 36 g carbohydrate, 5 g fiber, 25 g protein.