I realize that my menu said we were having orecchiette with broccoli and mushrooms but John saw some good looking asparagus at the store so we changed directions. Penne is a great look-alike when paired with asparagus cut on the diagonal. And the hearty taste of whole grain is great with any vegetable.
I used a couple of teaspoons of oil to sauté the vegetables and some pasta water to make the sauce. Easy-peasy and dinner made in less than 30 minutes!