Deliciously Different

Asparagus with Balsamic Tomatoes

1 lb asparagus, trimmed
2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
1½ cups grape tomatoes, halved
1 teaspoon shallot, minced
½ teaspoon garlic, minced
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
¼ teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons goat cheese, crumbled
½ teaspoon black pepper
 
Cook asparagus in boiling water 2 minutes or until crisp and tender.  Drain.  Broil tomatoes in oven until slightly charred.  Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.  Sauté shallots and garlic for 5 minutes.  Stir in vinegar; cook 3 minutes.  Add charred tomatoes to the pan and toss to coat.  Stir in salt.  Arrange asparagus on a platter; top with tomato mixture.  Sprinkle with cheese and pepper.
Yields: 4 servings.

Recipe adapted from Cooking Light