1 stick butter
1 pt. half & half
8 oz. pkg. fresh mushrooms, sliced
1/2 to 1 lb. shrimp (optional)
1 lb. fresh asparagus in 1 inch segments
8 oz. pkg. pasta (any kind)
1-2 tsp. white pepper
3 tbsp. cornstarch
1/2 c. cold water
Parmesan cheese

In large saucepan, melt butter and saute mushrooms over medium heat for 3 minutes. Reduce heat to low. Add half & half and white pepper. Steam shrimp and add to sauce. Cook sauce over low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring often.

Steam asparagus until tender-crisp, 5-8 minutes. Do NOT add to sauce. Stir cornstarch into 1/2 cup COLD water. Gradually stir into sauce until it thickens, about 5 minutes. Cook pasta and drain per directions.

Put asparagus on serving of pasta, cover with sauce, serve immediately. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serves 6 easily.