Bacon, Asparagus, Green Pea and Bell Pepper Pasta

I used whole wheat penne pasta, but a spiral or cavatappi pasta would be great too.

1/2 cup frozen petite peas
asparagus, cut into 1 inch pieces
1 red bell pepper, cut into 1 inch strips
1 red onion, cut into 1 inch strips
3 garlic cloves, minced
6 slices of bacon, diced
southwestern salad dressing
pepper for seasoning
olive oil
shredded parmesan for garnish (optional)

Start bringing water to a boil for pasta.

Sauté bacon until crisp. Remove from sauté pan and allow to rest on a paper towel. Drain bacon fat, leaving a little bit to help coat the pan. Drizzle pan with olive oil. Heat over a medium-high heat and sauté asparagus, onion, bell pepper and garlic (season with pepper) until just starting to turn soft.

Start cooking pasta according to package directions.

While pasta is cooking, add bacon and peas. Continue to sauté, stirring frequently until pasta is done.

Once pasta is done, add pasta to a large bowl. Add vegetable mixture and toss to coat. Add about 1/2 cup of the southwestern salad dressing. Continue to toss to coat. Garnish with shredded parmesan (optional), serve and ENJOY!!!!!

Wine pairing.......Pinot Noir.