More Pasta Flavors
 
Before I start this recipe I wanted to ask.  Do you know the difference between a stew, a soup and a chowder???  Well, you will if you take my cooking class January 11 (Thursday) 9:30 a.m. to 12.  For more information and to register call The Roseville  Parks and Recreation at 916-774-5950 or go on line at www.rosevilleparks.com to register.  One of the soups I will make will be a delicious Thai Coconut soup. I will discuss what vegetables and spices cook slowly or quicker. I have lots of recipes, tips and techniques.  Now for my recipe.
 
I love pasta and am always making it different.  Always easy and fast. I have no problem using a jarred pasta sauce.  I do look for ones that are low in sodium.  Ideally 350 mg or less is best.  The brand I used in this recipe, Rinaldi had a little more but it was really good.  I bought it the other day at Raley’s for 99 cents!!!  It is a special all week.  I went back and bought 5 more jars.  It’s always good to have a pantry of “supporting” ingredients for a quick meal.  Here’s what you need:
 
For 2 people: (with leftovers)
2 slices of bacon (again I use 40% less sodium)
1 medium onion, sliced
3 cloves minced garlic
sliced mushrooms (I like a lot so I used 8 oz) Button, cremini, or even portobello mushrooms work great.  
Basil (fresh is best)
Italian Oregano
8 ounces whole wheat pasta
1 jar of pasta sauce
 
Slice the bacon and saute along with the onions until soft, about 5 minutes.  Add the mushrooms and garlic.  Be sure and saute until the mushrooms brown a bit and the bacon is cooked.  Be careful, don’t burn the bacon!!  If you are using dried basil and dried oregano, stir it in and saute for a minute.  Add the pasta sauce.  
Simmer for about 15 minutes to blend the flavors.  In the meanwhile, start cooking your pasta.  Just before serving, add fresh basil and a little shaving of Parmesan Cheese.  
 
You will have pasta and sauce left over.  Package it and either freeze it or save it for lunch the next day.  
 
It’s quick and easy and most of all delicious.  Along with a side salad, you have a very satisfying meal.  

 
More Pasta Flavors
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
Saute the bacon, onions, garlic and mushrooms. This is a good sauce.  But if you need a lower sodium brand, Classico is the best.  Email comments or questions: