Ellen's Favorite Penne

Not easy, by any means, but worth the work!

3 tbsp oil
1 bunch asparagus, cut in 2" pieces
12 oz fully cooked sausage (Italian)
3/4 tsp salt
1 lb penne
1 cup frozen green peas
1 medium onion, chopped
1 cup shredded carrots
1-14 oz can diced tomatoes in thick juice
1 1/2 tsp salt free seasoning blend
3/4 cup half and half
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

Cook pasta, adding peas for the last 3-4 minutes.

Heat 2 tbsp oil in a very large skillet. Add asparagus, sausage and 1/4 tsp salt. Cook until asparagus are crisp-tender, remove to a plate. Add remaining oil, carrots & onion to the skillet, sautee until onions are soft. Add tomatoes, seasoning & 1/2 tsp of salt. Add 1/2 cup pasta water. Cover & simmer 10 mins.

Drain pasta. Add asparagus mixture and half & half to the skillet. Simmer 2 mins or until hot. Return pasta to pasta pot, add skillet contents and cheese, toss to coat.

Serve with rolls.