ZITI WITH PROSCIUTTO AND TOMATO SAUCE

Steps:

• Bring 4 quarts of water to a boil for cooking the ziti and vegetables.
• Cut the tomatoes in 1/2-inch cubes. There should be about 3 cups.
• Scrape the ends of the asparagus spears and cut off and discard about 2 inches of the tough bottoms. Cut off and reserve the asparagus tips, each about 2 inches long. Cut the center portion of the asparagus on the bias into 1-inch pieces. There should be about 4 cups of asparagus, including the tips.
• Stack the prosciutto slices and cut them in 1/4-inch-wide strips. There should be about 1 1/4 cups.
• Drop the asparagus pieces into the boiling water and cook 3 minutes. Scoop out the asparagus and set aside. Allow the water to continue to boil.
• To the boiling water add salt and the ziti. When the water returns to a boil cook the ziti to the desired degree of doneness, about 12 minutes or longer. Scoop out and reserve Y cup of the cooking liquid. Set aside.
• Meanwhile, heat the oil in a large skillet and add the garlic. Cook briefly, stirring, and add the prosciutto, stirring. Add the tomatoes, salt and pepper and cook, stirring occasionally, about 3 minutes. Add the cream and bring to a boil. Drain the ziti, add it to the prosciutto mixture and stir. Add the asparagus pieces and the basil. Add the reserved Y cup of cooking liquid. Stir to blend and sprinkle with cheese. Toss and serve.