Green asparagus with pasta

Ingredients for 2 servings:

• 400 g asparagus, green, cleaned
• 1 tsp ginger, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1 small chili pepper(s), pitted and cut into thin rings
• 2 tbsp oil
• 6 tbsp water or vegetable broth
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp pine nuts, if desired
• some cheese, grated
• 250 g pasta, approximately, e.g. Farfalle or Macceroni

Instructions

Working time approx. 30 minutes; Cooking/baking time approx. 15 minutes; Total time approx. 45 minutes

Cut the asparagus diagonally into bite-sized pieces. Heat the oil, briefly fry the garlic and ginger, add the chili rings, and fry briefly. Add the asparagus and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, then add the sugar, water or vegetable stock, and soy sauce and simmer uncovered for 5 minutes. The asparagus should remain firm to the bite; allow most of the liquid to evaporate. While the asparagus is cooking, cook the pasta until al dente, drain, and toss with the asparagus. Divide between 2 plates and sprinkle with pine nuts toasted in a dry pan and/or cheese (you can also omit either).