Pasta with Smoked Mozzarella

Directions

Soak dried tomato strips in the cup of warm water for 3 to 5 min until they begin to soften.

Drain and reserve the liquid.

Heat 5 inches of water to boiling in large saucepot.

Add the asparagus and cook 3 min. until tender but still crisp. Remove to a bowl and set aside.

In the same of pot of boiling water, cook the pasta.

While it’s cooking: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat; add onion andamp;amp; sauté 5 min.

Reduce heat to low; add garlic and sauté 3 min.

Stir in tomato liquid, asparagus, thyme leaves andamp;amp; salt.

Cook for 5 min.

Drain pasta; return it to the pot and toss with remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil.

Place on serving platter and top with tomato-asparagus mixture and mozzarella.

Serve immediately; or to serve cold, cool to room temperature, cover andamp;amp; refrigerate.