Penne with Asparagus

Ingredients

 * 8 oz penne or ziti
 * 1 tbsp olive oil
 * 2 shallots, finely chopped
 * 2 cups prepared tomato sauce
 * ⅔ cup half-and-half or plain soy milk
 * 2 lbs thin asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
 * ½ tsp dried tarragon
 * ½ tsp salt
 * ½ tsp freshly ground pepper

Directions

 * 1) Bring large pot of lightly salted water to a boil.
 * 2) Add pasta; stir to prevent sticking.
 * 3) Cook pasta until just tender according to package directions, about 10 minutes.
 * 4) Drain well.
 * 5) Meanwhile, in large skillet, heat oil over medium heat.
 * 6) Add shallots and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, 6 to 7 minutes.
 * 7) Stir in tomato sauce and half-and-half, increase heat to high and bring to a boil.
 * 8) Add asparagus and tarragon and reduce heat to low.
 * 9) Partially cover and cook until asparagus are tender and sauce is slightly thickened, 10 to 12 minutes.
 * 10) Add pasta to asparagus mixture along with salt and pepper.
 * 11) Toss until well coated.
 * 12) Serve hot.