Boil about 4 inches of water in a large pot, when boiling add asparagus and cook about 2 to 3 minutes, or until tender crisp. Drain and chop into small bite sized pieces.
Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions for al dente.
While pasta is cooking, in a medium saucepan heat 1-1/2 cups marinara sauce.
Drain pasta and RESERVE a cup of the pasta water. Return pasta back to the pot and toss with marinara, asparagus, grated cheese, salt and pepper and a 1/4 cup of the pasta water or as needed to loosen the sauce.
Divide between four bowls and top with fresh pepper and more grated cheese if desired.
