A Passion for Balsamic

The Ultimate Balsamic Obsession: Crafting Delicious Penne with Roasted Asparagus and Balsamic Butter

There are certain flavors that simply transcend the ordinary, etching themselves into your culinary memory and resurfacing as intense cravings. For me, that flavor is undeniably balsamic vinegar. This past week, a familiar and irresistible urge for its unique tang swept over me, as it often does every couple of months. I wholeheartedly attribute this deep-seated affection to my formative years spent exploring the vibrant streets and rich culinary landscape of Rome. While living there, I was utterly captivated by balsamic vinegar; it became a daily ritual, an essential part of every meal. (This same fervent devotion also applied to Nutella, but that particular love affair is a story for another time entirely).

Returning to Colorado after my Roman adventure, my culinary habits took a wonderfully simplistic turn. My go-to comfort meal transformed into nothing more elaborate than a crusty loaf of fresh French bread, generously torn into pieces, and then lavishly doused in balsamic vinegar. Super healthy, I know, but oh, so satisfying! It’s funny how food shapes our lives and relationships. In fact, I’m pretty sure this unconventional love of balsamic vinegar is how I managed to charm and ultimately “hook” my now-husband. I vividly recall the early days of our relationship; several nights a week, we would retreat to my bedroom, armed with that same simple loaf of bread, a bottle of rich balsamic, and a captivating movie. Yes, you could say I was, and still am, a delightfully cheap date. Those evenings, filled with laughter, simple food, and burgeoning affection, are etched fondly in my memory.

Fast forward a few years, and here I am, approaching my late 20s at what feels like an alarming, breakneck pace (yikes!). With this progression of time comes a gentle nudge towards a more evolved approach to cooking. The charmingly unsophisticated meal of French bread and balsamic vinegar, while still holding a special place in my heart, just doesn’t quite cut it anymore as a regular dinner option. Plus, my metabolism, which was never particularly turbocharged to begin with, has decidedly begun its inevitable deceleration. Opting for such a carb-heavy, nutritionally sparse dinner on a regular basis now feels like a recipe for a different kind of disaster.

Despite this newfound awareness regarding healthier choices and the potential pitfalls of a carb-laden diet, where does my mind instinctively wander first when a craving strikes? Pasta, of course! It’s not as if pasta and bread are remotely related, right? Nope, not a bit. We’ve cleared that up, haven’t we?

With my balsamic craving reaching a fever pitch and my brain stubbornly fixated on pasta, I embarked on a culinary quest. It was on Pinterest – yes, my beloved Pinterest, a veritable Mecca for a recipe hoarder like myself! – that I stumbled upon a recipe that promised to marry my two current obsessions. It was a revelation. The resulting dish was surprisingly sweeter than I had initially anticipated, a delightful counterpoint to the usual tang of balsamic. However, with a crucial hit of salt, it transformed into the absolute perfect antidote to my craving. The sheer joy and satisfaction it brought were undeniable, proven by the two hearty bowls I enthusiastically downed on Monday night. Don’t judge me; some cravings simply demand complete surrender!

A Culinary Revelation: Penne with Roasted Asparagus and Balsamic Butter

(Adapted from Food & Wine)

Ingredients

  • 1 pound fresh asparagus, tough ends trimmed, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 tablespoon high-quality olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons fine sea salt, divided
  • 1/2 teaspoon fresh-ground black pepper, divided
  • 1/2 cup plus 3 tablespoons good quality balsamic vinegar
  • 1/3 teaspoon brown sugar, packed
  • 1 pound penne pasta
  • 1/4 pound (1 stick) unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Roasting the Asparagus to Perfection

Begin by preheating your oven to a steady 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). This ensures an even roast and perfectly tender-crisp asparagus. While the oven preheats, take your prepared 1-inch pieces of asparagus and spread them evenly across a rimmed baking sheet. Drizzle them generously with the olive oil, then sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon of the salt and 1/4 teaspoon of the black pepper. Toss gently to ensure all the asparagus pieces are lightly coated. Roast the asparagus for approximately 10 minutes, or until they are tender yet still retain a slight bite and vibrant green color. Be careful not to overcrowd the baking sheet; if necessary, use two sheets to ensure even roasting. Remove from the oven and set aside.

Step 2: Crafting the Balsamic Reduction

In a small saucepan, pour the 1/2 cup plus 3 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar. Place the saucepan over low-medium heat. Allow the vinegar to gently simmer, stirring occasionally, until it has significantly reduced in volume and thickened to a syrupy consistency. This process usually takes about 8-12 minutes, depending on your heat and the width of your saucepan. You’re aiming for approximately 3 to 4 tablespoons of rich, concentrated balsamic remaining. This reduction intensifies the flavor, creating a beautifully balanced sweet-tart profile. Once reduced, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the brown sugar and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon of fresh-ground black pepper. The brown sugar adds a touch of sweetness that perfectly complements the tang of the balsamic, creating the “balsamic butter” base that gives this dish its unique character. Set this flavorful reduction aside.

Step 3: Assembling Your Penne Masterpiece

While the balsamic is reducing, bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions until it is perfectly al dente – tender to the bite but still firm in the center. Once cooked, drain the pasta thoroughly, reserving about half a cup of the starchy pasta water (though we may not need it all for this recipe, it’s always good to have on hand for consistency adjustments). Immediately transfer the hot, drained pasta back into the large pot or a spacious serving bowl.

Now comes the magic! Add the small pieces of chilled butter to the hot pasta, tossing gently until they begin to melt and coat the penne. Follow with the balsamic reduction, the roasted asparagus, and the 1/3 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle in the remaining 1 3/4 teaspoons of salt. Toss everything together vigorously but carefully, ensuring that the pasta is evenly coated with the rich balsamic butter sauce, the tender asparagus, and the savory Parmesan. The heat from the pasta will continue to melt the butter and warm the asparagus, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully. If the sauce seems a little too thick, add a tablespoon or two of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Serve this exquisite Penne with Roasted Asparagus and Balsamic Butter immediately, topping each serving with additional freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil can also add a delightful pop of color and freshness. Enjoy the harmony of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors!

Why This Penne Recipe Will Become Your New Favorite

This Penne with Roasted Asparagus and Balsamic Butter isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. The genius of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the masterful way it elevates humble ingredients. The asparagus, roasted to a delicate tenderness, provides a fresh, earthy counterpoint to the richness of the pasta. But the true star, of course, is the balsamic butter. The reduction process concentrates the balsamic vinegar’s complex flavors, transforming it into a sweet, tangy, and intensely aromatic syrup. When combined with butter and a hint of brown sugar, it creates a luscious, glossy coating for the pasta that is simply irresistible.

The addition of freshly grated Parmesan cheese introduces a salty, umami depth that perfectly balances the sweetness of the balsamic. Each forkful is a symphony of textures and tastes: the chewiness of the al dente penne, the tender crunch of the asparagus, and the smooth, flavorful sauce that coats everything. It’s comfort food reimagined, offering a sophisticated twist on a classic pasta dish without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Tips for Achieving Culinary Excellence

  • Quality Balsamic Matters: While you don’t need the most expensive aged balsamic, using a decent quality vinegar will significantly impact the flavor of your reduction. Look for one that’s not too watery and has a natural sweetness.
  • Don’t Overcook: Both the asparagus and the pasta benefit from being cooked just right. Overcooked asparagus becomes mushy, and overcooked pasta loses its delightful texture. Aim for “tender-crisp” for the asparagus and “al dente” for the penne.
  • Freshly Grated Parmesan: While pre-grated Parmesan is convenient, freshly grated cheese melts better and offers a superior, more robust flavor. It makes a noticeable difference in the final dish.
  • Season to Taste: The salt in this recipe is crucial for balancing the sweetness of the balsamic. Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving. A little extra salt can often awaken all the flavors.
  • Serving Suggestions: This dish is hearty enough on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. A glass of crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, would also complement the flavors wonderfully.

Balsamic vinegar, for me, has always been more than just an ingredient; it’s a connection to cherished memories, a testament to simple pleasures, and an inspiration for culinary creativity. This Penne with Roasted Asparagus and Balsamic Butter recipe perfectly encapsulates that enduring love affair. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and elegant, satisfying my deepest cravings while offering a truly gourmet experience.

Whether you’re a long-time balsamic enthusiast or new to its enchanting charms, I wholeheartedly encourage you to try this recipe. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients, when combined thoughtfully, can create something truly extraordinary. Prepare it for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion; either way, it’s sure to impress and delight. Embrace the balsamic obsession, and let this pasta dish transport your taste buds to a place of pure culinary bliss!