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Tag: Pasta

Reginetti with Savoy Cabbage and Pancetta

Reginetti with Savoy Cabbage and Pancetta

Reginetti with Savoy Cabbage and Pancetta

12 ounces reginetti or other short pasta

Kosher salt

2 T. olive oil

6 ounces thinly sliced pancetta (Italian bacon)

1 small head of savoy cabbage, tough ribs removed, leaves torn

¼ C. (½ stick) unsalted butter, cut into pieces

2 tsp. fresh thyme leaves

½ ounces Parmesan, finely grated (about ½ C.)

Freshly ground black pepper

Poppy seeds (for serving)

 

Cook pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water, stirring occasionally, until very al dente (pasta will still be opaque and very firm in the center). Drain pasta, reserving 1½ C. pasta cooking liquid. Meanwhile, heat oil in a large skillet over medium and cook pancetta, turning halfway through, until brown and crisp, about 4 minutes. Drain on paper towels. Add cabbage to skillet and cook undisturbed until deeply browned in some spots, about 3 minutes. Toss, then cook undisturbed until deeply browned in other spots, about 2 minutes. Continue to cook and toss until cabbage is charred in some spots and bright green in others and beginning to wilt. Add butter and thyme and cook, tossing, until butter begins to brown, about 2 minutes. Add Parmesan, pasta, and 1 C. pasta cooking liquid and cook, tossing often and adding more cooking liquid to help finish cooking pasta, until pasta is al dente and sauce is thickened and emulsified and coats pasta, about 5 minutes. Add pancetta and toss to combine; taste and season with salt and pepper. Serve topped with poppy seeds.

One Pot Pizza Pasta Bake

One Pot Pizza Pasta Bake

One Pot Pizza Pasta Bake

 

1 T. olive oil

8 ounces spicy Italian sausage, casing removed

1/2 C. mini pepperoni, divided

1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce

1/2 tsp. dried oregano

1/2 tsp. dried basil

1/4 tsp. garlic powder

8 ounces rotini pasta

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1 C. shredded mozzarella cheese

2 T. chopped fresh parsley leaves

 

Preheat oven to broil. Heat olive oil in a large oven-proof skillet over medium high heat. Add Italian sausage and cook until browned, about 3-5 minutes, making sure to crumble the sausage as it cooks; drain excess fat. Stir in 1/4 C. pepperoni until heated through, about 1 minute. Stir in tomato sauce, oregano, basil garlic powder, pasta and 1 1/2 C. water; season with salt and pepper, to taste. Bring to a boil; cover, reduce heat and simmer until pasta is cooked through, about 12-14 minutes. Remove from heat; top with mozzarella and remaining 1/4 C. pepperoni. Place into oven and cook until melted and golden brown, about 2 minutes. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley, if desired.

Linguine with Pancetta, Olive Oil, Chile, Clams and White Wine Sauce

Linguine with Pancetta, Olive Oil, Chile, Clams and White Wine Sauce

Linguine with Pancetta, Olive Oil, Chile, Clams and White Wine Sauce

1 lb. dried good quality linguine

Olive oil

4 rashers pancetta or dry-cured smoky bacon, sliced thinly

1 large clove of garlic, finely chopped

1 to 2 dried red chilli’s, crumbled

1 1/2 lb. clams

2 glasses (10 ounces) of white wine

1 good handful of parsley leaves, roughly chopped

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

 

Cook your linguine in salted boiling water until al dente. Meanwhile, get a pan hot and add a couple of good lugs (T.) of olive oil and the pancetta. Fry until golden, then add the garlic and chilies. Soften them slightly and add the clams. Stir, then add the white wine. Put a lid on the pan and cook for a further couple of minutes until all the clams have opened-discard any that remain closed. Remove from the heat and add the drained linguine. Stir in the parsley, correct the seasoning and serve with all the cooking juices.

Pepperoni Rigatoni Bake

Pepperoni Rigatoni Bake

Pepperoni Rigatoni Bake

 

1 package(s) (16-ounce) rigatoni or penne pasta

2 large eggs

1 cup(s) whole milk

1 cup(s) (4 ounces ) shredded part skim mozzarella cheese

1 cup(s) (3 ounces ) grated Parmesan cheese

1 container(s) (15-ounce) part-skim ricotta cheese

4 ounce(s) (1 cup) sliced pepperoni, cut into slivers

1 package(s) (10-ounce) frozen peas

1/2 teaspoon(s) salt

1/4 teaspoon(s) ground black pepper

 

Heat large covered saucepot of salted water to boiling over high heat. Add rigatoni and cook as label directs. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Grease 3- to 3 1/2-quart casserole (about 2 inches deep) or 13- by 9-inch glass baking dish. In large bowl, with wire whisk, lightly beat eggs. Stir in milk, mozzarella, Parmesan, ricotta, pepperoni, frozen peas, salt, and pepper until well combined. Drain rigatoni. Add rigatoni to cheese mixture and toss to coat. Transfer rigatoni mixture to prepared casserole. Bake, uncovered, 20 to 25 minutes or until edges are golden and center is almost set. Let stand 5 minutes before serving.

Yield: 6 servings

Calories: 675

Fat: 26g
Fiber:

Beef with Bow Tie Pasta

Beef with Bow Tie Pasta

1-1/2 lbs beef boneless sirloin steak
3 C. (2 inch) pieces asparagus (about 1 lb)
1 C. sliced onions
1-1/2 C. beef broth
4 C. cooked farfalle (bow-tie shape pasta)
1 C. tomato puree
1 T. dried basil leaves
3 T. chopped sun dried tomatoes (not oil packed)
1/4 tsp. pepper
2 T. Parmesan cheese

Spray 12 inch skillet with nonstick cooking spray. Trim fat from beef steak. Cut beef into 2 inch strips. Cut strips crosswise into 1/8 inch slices. Heat skillet over medium heat until hot. Cook asparagus, onions and 1 C. of the broth 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until liquid has evaporated. Remove from skillet. Add beef to skillet; cook, stirring frequently, about 2 minutes or until beef is no longer pink. Return vegetables to skillet. Add remaining broth and ingredients except cheese; cook about 2 minutes, stirring frequently or until mixture is hot. Sprinkle with cheese.

Yield: 6 servings
Calories: 315
Fat: 5g
Fiber: 4g

Golden-Topped Macaroni and Cheese Casserole

Golden-Topped Macaroni and Cheese Casserole

Golden-Topped Macaroni and Cheese12 oz. Elbow Macaroni
5 T. Butter, divided
3 T. Flour
3 C. Milk
2 tsp. Paprika
1 tsp. Dry Mustard
3 C. shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese
1 C. shredded Colby Cheese
½ C. freshly grated Parmesan Cheese
12.5 oz. can petite cut Diced Tomatoes, drained
1 C. crushed Potato Chips
½ C. Cornflake Crumbs

Preheat oven to 350. Coat a shallow 2 quart baking dish with cooking spray. Cook the macaroni according to package directions. Drain about 1 minute before the pasta is completely cooked and rinse under cold water. Drain again and transfer to large bowl. Meanwhile heat a medium pot over medium high heat and melt 3 T. butter. Stir in flour and cook, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon until the flour just starts to turn light tan. Whisk in the milk, paprika and mustard. Cook, whisking constantly until mixture thickens, a few minutes. Reduce heat to low and stir in cheeses and cook, stirring, until melted. Pour cheese sauce over macaroni and toss until combined. Stir in tomatoes and spread the mixture in the baking dish. Melt the remaining butter in the microwave using a small glass bowl. Combine flakes and chips in a bowl and add the butter. Toss until moistened evenly the sprinkle over the macaroni. Bake until bubbling and the top is golden, 25-30 minutes. Remove from oven and let stand 10 minutes before serving.

Penne with Olives and Grape Tomatoes

Penne with Olives and Grape Tomatoes

12 ounces penne pasta
2 T. olive oil
2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
2 C. grape tomatoes, halved
2 tsp. dried oregano
1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. black pepper
1/4 C. pitted kalamata olives, sliced
1/4 C. chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
1/4 C. freshly grated parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish

Cook pasta according to directions but without using oil; drain. Meanwhile, in a large nonstick skillet, heat oil on medium. Add garlic and cook, stirring about 1 minute or until golden. Add tomatoes, oregano, red pepper, salt and black pepper. Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring 3 minutes or until tomato juices run. Add the pasta, olives, parsley and 1/4 C. parmesan to skillet; toss to combine. Garnish with more cheese if desired.

Yield: 6 servings
Calories: 298
Fat: 8g
FIber: 3g

Fresh Mozzarella and Tomato Pasta

Fresh Mozzarella and Tomato Pasta

1 envelope Italian Salad Dressing Mix

2 T. oil

2 T. balsamic vinegar

2 lb. ripe tomatoes, coarsely chopped

1 lb. pasta, cooked, drained

1 pkg. (9 oz.)  Fresh Mozzarella Cheese (27 balls), drained

1/4 C. chopped fresh basil

1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

 

Mix salad dressing mix, oil and vinegar in large bowl until well blended. Add remaining ingredients; toss lightly.

 

Yield: 8 servings

Calories: 350

Fat: 11g

Fiber: 3g

Chicken Bowtie Soup

Chicken Bowtie Soup

1 quart fat-free, lower-sodium chicken broth
1 heaping C. bowtie-shaped pasta
1 medium carrot, peeled and cut into small dice
1 celery rib, trimmed and cut into small dice
1/4 C. minced onion
1 C. diced all-white meat cooked chicken
1/2 C. frozen baby peas
1 T. cornstarch whisked into 1/3 C. water
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. fresh-ground black pepper

Pour the broth into a 3 to 4-quart saucepan, place over medium-high heat and bring to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta, carrots, celery and onion, return to a simmer, reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring
occasionally, until the pasta is almost tender. Add the chicken and peas and simmer for 2 minutes. Whisk the cornstarch mixture and add it to the soup along with the salt and pepper. Simmer until slightly thickened and
glossy. Serve immediately.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 158
Fat: 1g
Fiber: 2g

Taco Twist Casserole

Taco Twist Casserole

1 lb extra lean ground beef
1 pkg taco seasoning mix
1 can tomato sauce (15 oz.)
1/2 C. chopped green pepper
2 1/4 C. corkscrew macaroni — (6 oz.) cooked and drained
1 C. shredded reduced fat cheese (4 oz.)
1/2 C. light sour cream

Brown beef; drain if necessary. Stir in seasoning mix, tomato sauce and green pepper. Bring to a boil and remove from heatsp. Combine cooked macaroni, 1/2 C. cheese and sour cream and place on bottom of 6×10 inch baking dish. Top with meat mixture and remaining cheese. Bake at 350�for 30 minutes.

Yield: 6 servings
Calories: 338
Fat: 12.7g
Fiber: 1.2g

Note: Serve this relatively high fat family favorite with a salad and a steamed vegetable to bring down the fat % for the entire meal.

Chili and Cheddar Bow Tie Casserole

Chili and Cheddar Bow Tie Casserole

1 (7-ounce) can chipotle chiles in adobo sauce
1 T. butter
1 cup chopped red bell pepper
1/2 cup diced Canadian bacon (about 2 oz.)
1 cup thinly sliced green onions
2 T. all-purpose flour
1 tsp. chili powder
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. ground cumin
2 1/4 cups 2% reduced-fat milk
2 cups (8 oz.) shredded reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese, divided
2 T. chopped fresh cilantro
8 cups hot cooked farfalle (bow tie pasta) or other short pasta
Cooking spray

Preheat oven to 400°. Remove 1 tsp. adobo sauce and 1 chile from canned chiles; mince the chile. Place remaining sauce and chiles in a zip-top plastic bag; freeze for another use. Melt butter in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add bell pepper and bacon; sauté 4 minutes. Add onions; sauté 1 minute. Stir in the adobo sauce, minced chile, flour, chili powder, salt, and cumin; cook 1 minute. Gradually add milk; cook until thick and bubbly (about 4 minutes), stirring constantly with a whisk. Remove from heat. Gradually add 1 1/2 cups cheese and cilantro, stirring until cheese melts. Add pasta to pan; toss well. Spoon the pasta mixture into an 11 x 7-inch baking dish coated with cooking spray. Sprinkle 1/2 cup cheese over pasta mixture. Bake at 400° for 15 minutes or until browned.

Yield: 6 servings (serving size: 1 1/3 cups)
Calories: 369
Fat: 12.5g
Fiber: 3.1g

Capt’n Bobino’s Fisherman-style Crab

Capt’n Bobino’s Fisherman-style Crab

Capt’n Bobino’s Fisherman-style Crab

2 cooked Dungeness crabs (about 2 lb. each), cleaned and cracked

1 lb. boned, skinned, firm white-fleshed fish such as halibut

3/4 C. (3/8 lb.) butter

1/4 C. olive oil

1/4 C. minced garlic

1 C. dry sherry or dry white wine

1/3 C. lemon juice

1/2 C. chopped parsley

Salt and pepper

8 oz. dried angel hair pasta

Lemon wedges

1 baguette (about 8 oz.), sliced

 

In a 5- to 6-quart pan over high heat, bring 4 quarts water to a boil. Rinse crabs and fish and pat dry; cut fish into 1- to 1 1/2-inch pieces.3. Add butter and olive oil to a 12-inch frying pan (with sides at least 2 1/2 in. tall) or 14-inch wok over medium-high heat; when butter is melted, add garlic and stir just until fragrant, 1 to 2 minutes. Add fish and turn pieces occasionally until beginning to brown, 2 to 3 minutes. Pour in sherry and lemon juice; gently add crabs. Sprinkle with parsley. Cover and simmer until crabs are hot and fish is opaque but still moist-looking in the center (cut to test), 5 to 6 minutes. Add salt and pepper to taste. Meanwhile, add angel hair pasta to boiling water; cook, stirring occasionally, until barely tender to bite, 3 to 4 minutes. Drain pasta well and spread in the bottom of a wide serving bowl. Pour crab mixture over pasta and garnish with lemon wedges. Serve with baguette slices to sop up the sauce.

Chicken Manicotti with Red Pepper Cream Sauce

Chicken Manicotti with Red Pepper Cream Sauce

12 manicotti or 18 conchiglioni (jumbo shells)
8-oz. package reduced-fat cream cheese (Neufchatel), cut up
3/4 C. fat-free milk
1/2 of a 7-oz. jar roasted red sweet peppers (about 1/2 C.), drained and chopped or one 4-oz. jar diced pimiento, drained
3 T. grated Parmesan cheese
9-oz. package (2 C.) frozen diced cooked chicken, thawed
10-oz. package frozen chopped broccoli, thawed and drained
2 T. thinly sliced green onion
1/4 tsp. ground black pepper

Cook pasta according to package directions. Rinse with cold water; drain well. For sauce: In a heavy small saucepan stir cream cheese and 1/4 C. of the milk over medium-low heat until smooth. Stir in remaining milk. Stir in sweet peppers or pimiento and Parmesan cheese; heat through. For filling:
In a large bowl stir together 3/4 C. of the sauce (set remaining sauce aside), the chicken, broccoli, onion, and black pepper. Using a small spoon, stuff each manicotti with about 1/4 C. of the filling or each conchiglioni with 2 to 3 T. filling. Place in a 3-quart rectangular baking dish. Bake, covered, in a 350º oven for 30 minutes or until heated through. To serve: Cook and stir remaining sauce over low heat until heated through. Place 2 manicotti or 3 shells on each serving plate. Spoon sauce over shells.

Yield: 6 servings
Serving Size: 2 manacotti or 3 shells w/sauce

Calories: 318
Fat: 14 g
Fiber: 1g

Linguine with Clams and Porcini Mushrooms

Linguine with Clams and Porcini Mushrooms

1 ounce dried porcini mushrooms
1/4 cup olive oil
10 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp. dried red pepper flakes
36 fresh clams, cleaned
2 cups dry white wine
4 tomatoes, cubed
3 (8 ounce) jars clam juice
1 1/2 cups chopped fresh parsley
1 (16 ounce) package linguine pasta

Soak mushrooms 20 to 30 minutes in cold water to rehydrate. Dry, and coarsely chop. Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir in mushrooms, garlic, and red pepper. Cook until browned. Stir in clams and white wine. As clams open, remove to a medium bowl, discarding those that remain closed. Mix tomatoes, clam juice, and parsley into the mushroom mixture. Simmer until slightly thickened, about 15 minutes. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add linguine and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente; drain. Return clams to the broth mixture and cook until heated through. Thoroughly mix in cooked linguine just before serving.

Yield: 8 servings
Calories: 353
Fat: 8.7g
Fiber: 3.7g

Four Cheese Stuffed Shells

Four Cheese Stuffed Shells

1/2 lb. Jumbo Shell Pasta (20 Shells)
6oz. 1% Cottage Cheese
7 1/2 oz. Ricotta Cheese
1/2 C. Shredded Asiago Cheese
3/4 C. Grated Parmesan Cheese
2 T. snipped fresh Chives
2 T. chopped Parsley
Pepper
1/2 10oz. Package Frozen Spinach, thawed and drained
3 C. Smoky Marinara
1/2 C. shredded Mozzarella

Cook pasta according to package directions, omitting oil and salt. Drain and set aside. Preheat oven to 375. Coat a 13×9” baking dish with cooking spray and set aside. Place ricotta and cottage cheese in food processor and mix until smooth. Combine with Asiago and the next 6 ingredients. Spoon or pipe 1 T. mixture into each shell. Arrange shells seas sides up into prepared dish. Pour marinara over shells and sprinkle with mozzarella. Cover with foil and bake for about 30 minutes and fully heated. You can easily vary the filling by using different cheeses or herbs.

Serving = 2 stuffed shells and 1/2 C. sauce =

Calories: 470
Fatt: 16g
Fiber: 5g

Macaroni Au Gratin

Macaroni Au Gratin

8oz Penne
15 oz. ricotta cheese
1/2 tsp. onion powder
1 T. of mayo
2 tsp. of Worcestershire sauce/soy sauce
1 tsp. of mustard
1.5 tsp. of white pepper (black pepper is fine)
1 large egg
1/2 chicken bouillon cube
1/4 C. milk
salt to taste
6 oz. mozzarella cheese
3 oz. Parmesan cheese/cheddar cheese
1 small clove of garlic

Add the penne to 3 1/2 to 4 C. of salted boiling water. Cook the penne until al dente ( do not cook the pasta completely, the oven will cook it through). While the pasta is cooking preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. In a separate bowl or baking dish (I’m using a 1.5 quart baking dish) beat the egg then add in the milk, mustard, a pinch of salt, pepper, mashed bouillon cube, mashed and chopped garlic, onion powder, mozzarella and ricotta cheese. Mix, mix and mix. Set aside. Once the pasta is ready. Drain then toss into your mixing bowl/baking dish of mixed ingredients. Make sure each penne is coated. This is when you want to add to baking dish, if you haven’t already. Then sprinkle the parmesan cheese on top. Bake until the cheese is melted and slightly brown. Remove from oven immediately. Let rest a few minutes.

Linguine with White Clam Sauce

Linguine with White Clam Sauce

1 (10-oz.) can whole baby clams, undrained
2 T. light butter
1 T. olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 T. all-purpose flour
1/2 C. dry white wine
2 T. chopped fresh parsley
1 tsp. chopped fresh or 1/4 tsp. dried thyme
1/8 tsp. pepper
1 (6-1/2-oz.) can minced clams, drained
4 C. hot cooked linguine (about 8 oz. uncooked pasta)
Thyme sprigs (optional)

Drain baby clams in a sieve over a bowl, reserving juice. Heat butter and olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic, and sauté 1 minute. Stir in flour. Stir in the reserved clam juice, wine, chopped parsley, chopped thyme, and pepper, and cook 2 minutes, stirring frequently. Add the baby clams and the minced clams, and cook 3 minutes or until thoroughly heated. Serve clam sauce over pasta. Garnish with thyme sprigs, if desired.

Yield: 4 servings
Serving size: 1 C. pasta and about 1/2 C. sauce

Calories: 328
Fat: 8.5g
Fiber: 2.4g

Shells with Tuna and Capers

Shells with Tuna and Capers

1 package (16 ounces) medium shell pasta

 Salt

1 medium lemon

2 T. olive oil

2 clove garlic, crushed with press

1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper

2 can (6 ounces) tuna in water, drained and flaked

1/4 cup capers, drained and chopped

1 cup packaged fresh Italian parsley leaves, chopped

In saucepot, prepare pasta in boiling salted water as label directs. Meanwhile, from lemon, grate 1 tsp. peel, and squeeze 2 T. juice. In 10-inch skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and crushed red pepper, and cook, stirring, 30 seconds. Add tuna, capers, lemon juice, lemon peel, and 1/4 tsp. salt, and cook 2 minutes. When pasta has cooked to desired doneness, remove 1/2  C. pasta cooking water. Drain pasta and return to saucepot. Add parsley, tuna mixture, and reserved pasta cooking water; toss well.

Cheesy Baked Tortellini

Cheesy Baked Tortellini

Olive oil
2 C. marinara sauce
1/3 C. mascarpone cheese
¼ C. chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
2 tsp. chopped fresh thyme
1 lb. purchased cheese tortellini
2 oz. thinly sliced smoked mozzarella
¼ C. freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Preheat the oven to 350. Lightly oil and 8x8x2” baking dish or 4 individual gratin dishes.
Whisk the marinara sauce, mascarpone cheese, parsley, and thyme in a large bowl to blend. Cook the tortellini in a large pot of boiling salted water until just tender, about 2 minutes. Drain. Add the tortellini to the sauce and toss to coat. Transfer the tortellini mixture to the prepared baking dish or dishes. Top with the smoked mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese. Cover the dish or dishes with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake uncovered until the sauce bubbles and the cheeses on top melt, about 10 minutes longer.

Bel Aria Chicken & Pasta

Bel Aria Chicken & Pasta

Coarse salt

1 lb. rigatoni pasta

3 T. extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO)

3 T. unsalted butter

1 1/3-1 1/2 lb. chicken tenders, cut into large bite size pieces

Coarse black pepper

1/2 lb. cremini mushroom caps, thinly sliced, or 4 portabello caps, gills scraped out, halved and thinly sliced

4 garlic cloves, chopped

4 Italian hot red cherry peppers, drained and chopped, plus a splash of the pickling juices from the jar

1/2 C. dry white wine

1/2 C. grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, plus more to pass at the table

Handful of fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped

Crusty bread

 

Bring a large pot of water to a boil for the pasta. When it comes to a boil, salt it and add the rigatoni. While the pasta is working, heat a big, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 T. of the EVOO and 1 1/2 T. of butter. When the butter melts into the oil, add the chicken to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and brown for 2-3 minutes on each side. Transfer chicken to a plate. It will finish cooking through when added back to the sauce later. Return the pan to the heat and add another T. of EVOO, the remaining butter, then the mushrooms and garlic. Cook until the mushrooms are tender, 10-15 minutes. Salt and pepper the mushrooms after they brown. Next, add hot peppers and a splash of the pickling liquid to the pan. Add the white wine and scrape up the pan drippings with a wooden spoon. Cook the wine down for a minute, then slide the chicken back into the pan. Cook together another couple of minutes to finish cooking the chicken through. Just before you drain the pasta, add 2 ladles of the water to the skillet. The starchy water will help the sauce form and adhere to the pasta. Drain the pasta while it still has a strong bite to it, a little shy of al dente. It will continue to cook a little once it is combined with the sauce. Drain the rigatoni well and add it to the skillet. Turn off the heat and toss the chicken, mushrooms, and pasta together for a minute or two, sprinkling in 2 or 3 handfuls of cheese as you go, to allow the pasta to soak up the sauce and flavors. Garnish the pasta with lots of chopped parsley and pass extra cheese and crusty bread at the table.

 

 

Yield:

Calories:

Fat:

Fiber:

 

 

Spicy Sausage Pasta

Spicy Sausage Pasta

spicy

1 T. olive oil

1 lb. smoked sausage

1.5 cups diced onion

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

1 (10 oz.) can Ro-Tel tomatoes and green chiles, Mild

1/2 cup heavy cream

8 oz. penne pasta

1/2 teaspoon salt and pepper, each

1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded

1/3 cup thinly sliced scallions

 

Add olive oil to an oven-safe skillet over medium high heat until just smoking. Add sausage and onions and cook until lightly browned, about 4 minutes. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add broth, tomatoes, cream, pasta, salt and pepper and stir. Bring to a boil, cover skillet, and reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer until pasta is tender, about 15 minutes.  Remove skillet from heat and stir in 1/2 cup cheese. Top with remaining cheese and sprinkle with scallions. Broil until cheese is melted, spotty brown, and bubbly.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pasta with Garlic, Shrimp and Fresh Herbs

Pasta with Garlic, Shrimp and Fresh Herbs

1 lb pastaDSC_78141
1/2 lb. shrimp, shells removed
3T olive oil
8-16 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
2 C. fresh herbs, chopped (any combination that appeals)
1/2 tsp. Kosher salt
Black pepper
1-2 C. milk or heavy cream
1 lemon
Parmesan Cheese

Cook the pasta according to package directions, add the shrimp during the last two minutes of cooking time. In a small skillet, heat the olive oil and sauté the garlic until very lightly browned. Return the pot of drained pasta to medium heat and add the garlic, herbs, salt and pepper. Add the milk or cream slowly and mix until a little sauce forms around the pasta. Taste and re-season if necessary (it will probably need a little more salt). Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon and Parmesan on top.

Conchigliette al forno (Baked Shells)

Conchigliette al forno (Baked Shells)

6 ounces portabella mushrooms, cleaned and trimmeBaked-Shellsd
1 stick unsalted butter
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ cup white wine
One cup of Chicken broth
2 cups finely shredded radicchio
2½ cups heavy cream
½ cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano
½ cup coarsely shredded fontina
½ cup crumbled Gorgonzola
2 teaspoons mascarpone cheese
6 leaves fresh sage, chopped
1 pound conchigliette rigate (pasta shells)

Preheat the oven to 500 degrees F. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Slice the mushrooms about ¼-inch thick. Heat 6 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet; add the mushrooms and ¼ teaspoon salt. Sauté over medium heat, add half cup of dry white wine stirring frequently, add one cup of chicken broth until they are cooked through, 15 to 20 minutes. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mushrooms, radicchio, cream, cheeses, sage. Parboil the pasta shells for 4 minutes; drain and add to the ingredients in the mixing bowl. Toss to combine. Divide the pasta mixture among 6 to 8 individual, shallow, ceramic gratin dishes (1½ to 2 cup capacity). Dot with the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and bake until bubbly and brown on top, about 7 to 10 minutes. Garnish with fresh Italian parsley, but do not cook the parsley in the pasta.

One Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta

One Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta

IMG_0715edit1 tablespoon olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup milk, or more, as needed
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
8 ounces uncooked fettuccine
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add garlic and cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Stir in chicken broth, milk, butter and fettuccine; season with salt and pepper, to taste. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until pasta is cooked through, about 18-20 minutes. Stir in Parmesan. If the mixture is too thick, add more milk as needed until desired consistency is reached. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley, if desired.

Pasta with Heirloom Tomatoes, Basil and Brie

Pasta with Heirloom Tomatoes, Basil and Brie

4 large (1 pound or more) heirloom tomatoes in an assortment of colors
1 pound Brie, rind removed, torn into irregular piece
1 cup cleaned fresh basil leaves cut into strips (use both red and green if you have them)
3 large cloves garlic, peeled and finely minced
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 tsp. kosher salt
1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
1 1/2 pounds pasta in your favorite shape to hold the juices of the sauce

Combine tomatoes, brie, basil, garlic, olive oil, salt and pepper in a large serving bowl. Prepare at least 2 hours before serving and set aside, covered, at room temperature. Bring 6 quarts water to a boil in a large pot. Add 2 tsp. salt. Add the pasta and boil until tender but al dente. Drain pasta and immediately toss with the sauce. The hot pasta will melt the brie and bring out the aromas and flavors of the tomatoes and garlic. Serve and pass the pepper mill.

Large Shell Pasta with Seafood Sauce

Large Shell Pasta with Seafood Sauce

3 T. olive oil
3 large garlic cloves, chopped
1/2 tsp. dried crushed red pepper
1 28-ounce can Italian plum tomatoes, chopped, juices reserved
1 10-ounce can baby clams, drained, juices reserved
4 T. chopped fresh parsley
1 tsp. dried basil, crumbled
1 tsp. anchovy paste
12 ounces large uncooked shrimp, peeled, deveined
12 ounces large shell pasta, freshly cooked

Heat oil in heavy large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and dried red pepper and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Mix in tomatoes with reserved juices, reserved clam juices, 2 T. parsley, basil and anchovy paste. Cover skillet and cook 15 minutes. Uncover and simmer until sauce thickens, stirring occasionally, about 15 minutes. Add clams and shrimp. Simmer until shrimp are just cooked through, about 3 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Add pasta to sauce; toss to combine. Transfer to large bowl. Garnish with remaining 2 T. parsley.

No Boil Baked Penne

No Boil Baked Penne

1 jar pasta sauce (26oz)
1 1/2 cups water
15 oz. ricotta
2 cups shredded mozzarella, divided
1/4 C. parmesan cheese
1 lb. sausage, cooked and crumbled
8 oz. uncooked penne

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Lightly grease 9×13 pan; set aside. Combine sauce, water, ricotta 1 C. of mozzarella, sausage, parmesan and penne. Pour into 9×13 pan and cover with foil. Bake for 55 minutes. Remove foil and top with remaining mozzarella cheese. Bake for 5 to 10 minutes, until bubbly.

Fast Pasta Sauces

Fast Pasta Sauces

1. Chopped black olives with a little juice, Italian bread crumbs, a tsp. each of EVOO and Red Wine Vinegar
2. A tsp. of olive oil and a tsp. of red cider vinegar.
3. A small package of pepperoni, a small package of feta cheese, salt & Pepper
4. 1/2 pound of bacon cooked crisp and crumbled , a large tomato diced very fine and a C. of baby spinach chopped fine.
5. Butter, Parmesan cheese, pepper and a splash of heavy cream
6. A small package of Goat Cheese, crumbled, a C. of diced spinach, some red onion
7. A heaping T. of pesto, 1/4 C. of ricotta cheese and a splash of EVOO
8. Zest of one lemon , the juice of a lemon and 2 T. of half and half cream
9. Strips of smoked ham, green peas, and a little half and half or cream
10. 1/4 C. of marinara, 1/4 C. of Alfredo Sauce and a tsp. of red pepper flakes
11. Pressed Garlic, Dribble of EVOO, pinch of Red Pepper Flakes
12. Chopped Fresh Tomato, Pressed Garlic, and Dribble of EVOO
13. Chopped anchovies, EVOO, chopped black olives and bread crumbs
14. Pesto, Ricotta Cheese and EVOO
15. A nice handful of chopped fresh herbs (your choice) and EVOO
16. A can of tuna, drained, capers, pepper and chopped parsley

Hot Brie Pasta

Hot Brie Pasta

½ lb. ripe Brie
¼ cup olive oil
½ cup fresh basil, julienned
1- 3 cloves garlic, crushed
2 tomatoes, seeded and cubed
¼ tsp. salt
½ tsp. freshly ground black pepper
½ lb. pasta (fettucine, linguine, or capellini all work well)
½ cup peas
Parmesan

Remove rind from Brie and cut into irregular pieces. Combine with next 6 ingredients and let stand 2 hours at room temperature. Cook pasta al dente, drain, and add raw peas (frozen are acceptable, but of course must be thawed first). Toss hot pasta with Brie sauce. Top with Parmesan cheese and serve at once.

Pasta with Capers and Cherry Tomatoes

Pasta with Capers and Cherry Tomatoes

recipe-image-legacy-id--281694_126 T. salt-packed capers
1 small red onion, halved lengthwise
3 garlic cloves, smashed
1/3 C. extra-virgin olive oil
3 canned whole tomatoes (preferably San Marzano), chopped
12 cherry tomatoes, quartered
2 T. chopped fresh mint
1/8 tsp. black pepper
3/4 lb dried linguine
Garnish: fresh mint leaves

Rinse capers in a sieve and transfer to a small bowl. Cover capers with water by about 2 inches and soak 30 minutes. Drain, and then repeat soaking. Drain and rinse capers, then squeeze dry and coarsely chop. Cook onion, cut sides down, and garlic in oil in a 4- to 5-quart heavy pot over moderate heat, stirring occasionally, 3 minutes. Add capers and cook, stirring occasionally, 5 minutes. Remove and discard garlic and onion. Add canned and cherry tomatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, 3 minutes. Stir in mint and pepper, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, stirring occasionally, 1 1/2 hours. Shortly before sauce is done, cook pasta in a 6- to 8-quart pot of boiling salted water until al dente. Reserve about 1 C. cooking water, then drain pasta. Add pasta to sauce and cook over high heat, tossing, 10 to 15 seconds. If pasta seems dry, add a few T. reserved cooking water. Cooks’ note: Sauce can be made 3 days ahead and chilled, covered.

Bow Tie Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes, Capers, and Basil

Bow Tie Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes, Capers, and Basil

bow-tie-pasta-ck-222291-x4 cups hot cooked bow tie pasta
4 cups halved cherry tomatoes (about 2 pints)
1/3 cup thinly sliced fresh basil
1/4 cup chopped pitted niçoise olives
2 tablespoons capers
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 garlic cloves, minced
Red wine vinegar (optional)

Combine first 10 ingredients in a large bowl, and toss well. Sprinkle vinegar over each serving, if desired.

Skillet Spaghetti with Shrimp

Skillet Spaghetti with Shrimp

Skillet Spaghetti with Shrimp

 

2 slices hearty white sandwich bread, torn into quarters

3 T. extra-virgin olive oil

6 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes

1 1/2 pounds extra-large shrimp, peeled, deveined, and tails removed (21 to 25 per pound)

Salt and pepper

1 (28-oz.) can crushed tomatoes

2 C. water

8 oz. spaghetti, broken in half

1/4 C. chopped fresh basil

 

Pulse bread in food processor until coarsely ground, about 5 pulses. Heat 1 T. oil in 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium heat. Cook bread crumbs until golden, about 5 minutes. Add half of garlic and 1/8 tsp. pepper flakes and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds; transfer to bowl. Wipe out skillet with paper towels. Pat shrimp dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper. Heat 1 T. oil in now-empty skillet over medium-high heat until just smoking. Add half of shrimp and cook without moving it until spotty brown on first side, about 1 minute; transfer to bowl. Repeat with remaining 1 T. oil and remaining shrimp. Add tomatoes, water, pasta, remaining garlic, and remaining 1/8 tsp. pepper flakes to now-empty skillet and bring to boil. Cover and cook over medium heat until pasta begins to soften, about 7 minutes. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, covered, until pasta is nearly al dente, about 5 minutes. Add shrimp and cook over medium-low heat until shrimp is cooked through, 1 to 2 minutes. Stir in basil. Sprinkle with toasted bread crumbs. Serve.

Pasta Vivante

Pasta Vivante

1 oz. dried porcini mushrooms
1 C. water
2 T. olive oil
1/2 C. pancetta or prosciutto
3 garlic cloves
2 T. butter
3 tomatoes, peeled, cored and chopped
1/2 C. chopped basil
Cracked black pepper, crushed red pepper and salt to taste
8 oz. penne pasta, cooked as directed
Grated Romano cheese

Soak mushrooms in water. In skillet with olive oil, sauté pancetta until golden; remove ham. Sauté garlic cloves until golden; remove. Drain mushrooms reserving 2 T. liquid. Add butter to skillet. Sauté mushrooms. Add reserved mushroom liquid, pancetta, tomatoes, basil, and seasonings. Simmer 20 minutes. Serve over penne. Top with cheese. Makes 4 servings.

Lemon Basil Pasta and Shrimp

Lemon Basil Pasta and Shrimp

½ lb. linguine or other pasta
¾ lb. cooked shrimp, thawed and drained
2 T. unsalted butter, melted
1 T. fresh lemon juice
1½ tsp. basil leaves
¾ tsp. garlic salt
¼ tsp. black pepper
¼ C. grated Parmesan cheese

Cook pasta in a large pan of boiling water 10 minutes, or until al dente. Add shrimp and drain immediately. Return pasta mixture to pan. Combine next 5 ingredients in a bowl. Toss with cooked pasta and shrimp. Sprinkle cheese over pasta and serve immediately.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 376
Fat: 9.5g
Fiber: 2.5g

Bacon Cheeseburger Macaroni & Cheese

Bacon Cheeseburger Macaroni & Cheese

Bacon Cheeseburger Macaroni & Cheese

1 box (12 oz.) Elbows

1 T. olive oil

2 T. garlic

½ white onion, small dice

1 C. (80/20) ground beef

1 white onion, quartered

10 cloves whole garlic

4 C. heavy cream

2 sprigs thyme

Salt to taste

2 T. black peppercorns

½ tsp. nutmeg

¼ lb. butter

1 C. flour

3 C. white cheddar cheese, grated

1½ C. bacon lardons, medium dice

Chopped fresh parsley

 

Cook pasta according to package directions.  Ground Beef Mix: In a sauté pan, add olive oil, garlic, onions and ground beef until beef is cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.  Béchamel Cheese Sauce: In a sauce pot, sauté quartered onion and garlic then add cream and thyme. Season with salt, pepper and nutmeg and cook until onion and garlic are tender and sauce is at a simmer. Whisk in roux (butter and flour). Once thickened, add 2 C. of cheese. After the cheese has melted, strain mixture to create a smooth sauce.  In a bowl, combine 1 C. each of ground beef mix and bacon lardons with cooked pasta. Add 4 C. cheese sauce and remainder of cheddar cheese. Pour into baking dish and garnish with remaining ground beef, bacon and parsley.

One Pot Ground Beef Stroganoff

One Pot Ground Beef Stroganoff

One Pot Ground Beef Stroganoff

3 tsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided

8 oz crimini mushrooms, sliced

salt and pepper

1/2 C. diced onion

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 lb ground beef

2 tsp. paprika

4 C. low sodium beef broth*

8 oz dry rotini

1/2 C. sour cream

fresh parsley, for serving

 

Heat 1 tsp. of the olive oil over medium heat in a pot or large skillet. Add the mushrooms and cook until they are tender, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, then remove from the pot into a bowl and set aside. Heat the remaining 2 tsp. of oil in the same pot. Add the onion, season with salt and pepper, and cook until translucent, 4-5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook until fragrant, 30-60 seconds. Add the ground beef and continue to cook, breaking up the beef with a spoon as it cooks, until it is browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes. Sprinkle the paprika over the top and stir to combine. Pour in the beef broth and the pasta*. Bring to a light boil then cover the pot. Continue to cook, stirring often, until the pasta is al dente, 17-20 minutes. Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the mushrooms and sour cream. Serve topped with fresh parsley.

 

*While 4 C. of beef broth always works well for me, many have commented that they ended up with too much liquid. You can always start with 3 C. of broth and add more if needed. Or if your end dish has more liquid than you like, you can leave the lid off of the pan for the last 5 minutes so that some of the liquid will evaporate. The cut of the pasta will also affect how much liquid you need.

Pasta with Bay Scallops and Pancetta

Pasta with Bay Scallops and Pancetta

Pasta with Bay Scallops and Pancetta

8 ounces linguine or fettuccine

1/4 pound pancetta, cut into large dice

1 pound bay scallops

2 large cloves garlic, minced

2 shallots, finely diced

1/2 C. chicken broth

1/4 C. white wine

1 medium lemon, zested and juiced

1/2 tsp. salt

1 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

1 tsp. dried basil

1/2 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes

4 tsp. butter

1/4 C. minced fresh parsley

 

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add linguine, and cook until not quite al dente, 9-10 minutes. Drain. Meanwhile, heat a medium skillet on medium low and add pancetta. Cook, stirring occasionally, until fat has rendered and the pancetta is well browned, about 7 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, remove pancetta to paper towels to drain. Pour the rendered fat into a separate bowl, leaving about a tsp. in the bottom of the pan. Turn the heat up to medium high. Add scallops and cook until just browned and cooked through, 2 to 3 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, remove scallops to a separate plate and set aside. Add 1 tsp. of the pancetta fat to the pan. Add garlic and shallots and sauté until just starting to soften, about 2 minutes. Stir in chicken broth, wine, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, pepper and red pepper flakes. Reduce heat to medium and simmer until liquid is reduced by half. Add butter, parsley and basil. Cook, stirring, just until the butter melts, about 1 minute. Add the cooked scallops and pancetta back to the pan. Stir in linguine and toss to coat.

One Pot Hawaiian Pasta

One Pot Hawaiian Pasta

One Pot Hawaiian Pasta

4 slices thick cut bacon, chopped

16 oz ham steak (or thick sliced from the deli), cubed

1/2 large red onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce

2 C. water

1 tsp. dried basil

1 tsp. dried oregano

1 tsp. Kosher salt

1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes

12 oz dry penne pasta

16 oz diced pineapple (fresh or canned)

1 C. (4 oz) mozzarella cheese

Chopped parsley, for topping

 

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the bacon. Cook until crisp. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon to a paper towel lined plate to drain. Discard all but 1 T. of the bacon grease.  Add the cubed ham and onion to the skillet. Cook, stirring frequently, until the ham is browned and the onion is just soft, about 3 minutes. Add the garlic and stir until fragrant, about 30 seconds more. Add the tomato sauce, water, basil, oregano, salt and pepper flakes. Stir to combine, then add the pasta and stir again. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover and cook until the pasta is tender, about 15 minutes (stir one or two times during cooking to make sure nothing is sticking).  Stir in the pineapple and reserved bacon, then remove from the heat. Sprinkle the top of the pasta with the mozzarella and cover again. Let the dish sit until the mozzarella is melted. Sprinkle with parsley before serving.

Penne with Peas, Pea Greens and Parmesan

Penne with Peas, Pea Greens and Parmesan

1 pound fresh peas, shelled (about 3/4 C.)
6 oz. pea shoots (tendrils, shoots, leaves) (1/2 big bunch), curly tendrils removed and discarded
1 T. extra virgin olive oil
1 bunch young spring onions or scallions, cleaned and finely chopped (about 1/2 C.)
Salt and freshly ground pepper
1 T. chopped fresh tarragon
1 T. chopped fresh parsley
¾ pound penne
1 to 2 oz. Parmesan, grated (1/4 to 1/2 C., to taste)

Begin heating a large pot of water for the pasta. Meanwhile, steam the peas over an inch of boiling water for 4 minutes, until just tender. Transfer to a bowl. Add the pea shoots to the steamer and steam 2 minutes, until just wilted. Remove from the heat and allow to cool until you can handle them. Do not discard the steaming water; pour it into a measuring cup. Squeeze out excess water from the pea greens and chop medium-fine. You should have about 1 C. chopped leaves and tender stems. Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet and add the chopped spring onion or scallions. Cook, stirring, until wilted, about 3 minutes. Add the pea shoots and stir together for about a minute. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Add the peas, tarragon and parsley and about 1/4 C. the steaming water and heat through. When the water in the pot comes to a boil, salt generously and add the pasta. Cook al dente, using the timing instructions on the package as a guide but checking the pasta a minute before the time indicated is up. When the pasta is ready, using a ladle transfer 1/2 C. the pasta cooking water to the pan with the peas and pea shoots. Drain the pasta and toss at once with the vegetables and Parmesan. Serve hot.

Pasta with Lemon, Olive Oil, and Goat Cheese

Pasta with Lemon, Olive Oil, and Goat Cheese

Pasta with Lemon, Olive Oil, and Goat Cheese

1/2 pound angel hair pasta

grated zest and juice of 1 meyer lemon

1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese, plus a little more for garnish

2 to 3 ounces fresh, soft goat cheese, crumbled, plus a little more for garnish

1/4 cup good quality extra virgin olive oil

salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

 

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the angel hair pasta until al dente, or tender but still firm to the bite, stirring occasionally, about 6 to 8 minutes. Drain, reserving about 1 cup of the pasta water. While the pasta is cooking, combine the zest and juice of the meyer lemon in a large bowl.  If using a regular lemon, start by adding about 2/3 of the juice since regular lemons are more sour.  Add more, if needed, once the sauce is thoroughly combined.  Add the parmesan, goat cheese, olive oil, and a little bit of the hot pasta cooking water. (I added about 3 ounces of goat cheese because I like it and it makes the sauce creamier.)  Season with salt and a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper.  Whisk sauce together until smooth. Transfer the cooked and drained pasta immediately to the bowl and toss to completely coat the pasta with the sauce. Garnish with more parmesan and crumbled goat cheese on top.