ITALIAN PASTA RECIPES

Tortellini Salad with Fresh Herb and Tomato Vinaigrette

2011-12-06T11:08:00.000-08:00

Tortellini Salad with Fresh Herb and Tomato Vinaigrette
Try this amazing Italian pasta recipe...a great one !

ITALIAN PASTA RECIPE INGREDIENTS

2 pounds packaged tortellini
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus 1 1/4 cups
4 cups freshly diced tomato
4 tablespoons chopped tarragon leaves
4 tablespoons chiffonade basil leaves
2 tablespoons minced parsley leaves
2 minced shallots
6 tablespoons lemon juice
1 1/2 pounds fresh mozzarella, sliced 1/4-inch thick into approximately 30 slices
4 cups fresh arugula
Gray salt
Freshly ground black pepper

ITALIAN PASTA RECIPE INSTRUCTIONS
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Cook the tortellini according to the package instructions. When fully cooked, drain and toss with 2 tablespoons of the olive oil and
allow to cool to room temperature.Meanwhile, in a nonreactive mixing bowl, combine the diced
tomatoes, herbs, shallots, lemon juice, and remaining 1 1/4 cups olive oil. Mix to combine and season with gray salt and pepper to combine. When the tortellini have cooled to room temperature toss with the vinaigrette.

To serve, line the perimeter of a large serving platter with overlapping slices of the mozzarella. Spoon the tortellini salad in the center and scatter the arugula leaves over the top...and the Italian pasta tortellini is ready to serve....great for feasts..enjoy with friends ! Bon apetit !
Italian-pasta recipes: turkey-and-spinach-lasagna.

Baked Penne with Roasted Vegetables

2011-10-23T11:02:00.000-07:00

Baked Penne with Roasted Vegetables
Another nice Italian pasta recipe to try....baked penne with roasted vegetables..great !

ITALIAN PASTA RECIPES INGREDIENTS

2 red peppers, cored and cut into 1-inch wide strips
2 zucchini, quartered lengthwise and cut into 1-inch cubes
2 summer squash, quartered lengthwise and cut into 1-inch cubes
4 cremini mushrooms, halved
1 yellow onion, peeled and sliced into 1-inch strips
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon salt, divided
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided
1 tablespoon dried Italian herb mix or herbs de Provence
1 pound penne pasta
3 cups marinara sauce (store bought or homemade)
1 cup grated fontina cheese
1/2 cup grated smoked mozzarella
1 1/2 cups frozen peas, thawed
1/4 cup grated Parmesan, plus 1/3 cup for topping
2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces

ITALIAN PASTA RECIPES INSRUCTIONS
Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F.
On a baking sheet, toss the peppers, zucchini, squash, mushrooms, and onions with olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, and dried herbs. Roast until tender, about 15 minutes.
Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the pasta and cook for about 6 minutes. Since you will be cooking the pasta a second time in the oven, you want to make sure the inside is still hard. Drain in a colander.
In a large bowl, toss the drained pasta with the roasted vegetables, marinara sauce, cheeses, peas, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Using a wooden spoon, gently mix, until all the pasta is coated with the sauce and the ingredients are combined.

Pour the pasta into a greased 9 by 13-inch pan. Top with the remaining 1/3 cup Parmesan and butter pieces. Bake until top is golden and cheese melts, about 25 minutes. The great Italian pasta Penne is ready to serve....nice one ! Bon apetit !
Italian-pasta recipes: lasagna-rolls.

Lasagna Rolls

2011-09-19T10:58:00.000-07:00

ITALIAN PASTA RECIPES : LASAGNA ROLLS

Try this Italian pasta of Lasagna Rolls recipe....great one !

ITALIAN PASTA RECIPES INGREDIENTS

12 whole-wheat lasagna noodles
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 14-ounce package extra-firm water-packed tofu, drained, rinsed and crumbled
3 cups chopped spinach
1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons finely chopped Kalamata olives
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 25-ounce jar marinara sauce, preferably lower-sodium, divided
1/2 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese

ITALIAN PASTA RECIPES INSTRUCTIONS
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook noodles according to package directions. Drain, rinse, return to the pot and cover with cold water until ready to use.
Meanwhile, heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat.
Add garlic and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 20 seconds.
Add tofu and spinach and cook, stirring often, until the spinach wilts and the mixture is heated through, 3 to 4 minutes. Transfer to a bowl; stir in Parmesan, olives, crushed red pepper, salt and 2/3 cup marinara sauce.
Wipe out the pan and spread 1 cup of the remaining marinara sauce in the bottom. To make lasagna rolls, place a noodle on a work surface and spread 1/4 cup of the tofu filling along it. Roll up and place the roll, seam-side down, in the pan. Repeat with the remaining noodles and filling. (The tofu rolls will be tightly packed in the pan.) Spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the
rolls.

Place the pan over high heat, cover and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to medium; let simmer for 3 minutes. Sprinkle the rolls with mozzarella and cook, covered, until the cheese is melted and the rolls are heated through, 1 to 2 minutes. Serve hot...hmmm...nice tasting Italian pasta of lasagne rolls. Enjoy it !

Italian Baked Chicken and Pastina

2011-08-15T10:55:00.000-07:00

ITALIAN PASTA RECIPES : BAKED CHICKEN AND PASTINA
An amazing Italian pasta recipe to try....baked chicken pastina !

ITALIAN PASTA RECIPE INGREDIENTS

1 cup pastina pasta (or any small pasta)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cup cubed chicken breast (1-inch cubes)
1/2 cup diced onion (about 1/2 a small onion)
1 clove garlic, minced
1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes with juice
1 cup shredded mozzarella
1/4 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup bread crumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan
1 tablespoon butter, plus more for buttering the baking dish

ITALIAN PASTA RECIPES INSTRUCTIONS
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the pasta and cook until just tender, stirring occasionally, about 5 minutes. Drain pasta into a large mixing bowl.
Meanwhile, put the olive oil in a medium saute pan over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 3 minutes. Add the onions and garlic, stirring to combine, and cook until the onions are soft and the chicken is cooked through, about 5 minutes more. Put the chicken mixture into the bowl with the cooked pasta. Add the canned tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. Place the mixture in a buttered 8 by 8 by 2-inch baking dish. In a small bowl mix together the bread crumbs and the Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle over the top of the pasta mixture. Dot the top with small bits of butter. Bake until the top is golden brown, about 30 minutes...and the Italian pasta is ready to serve...delicious...!
italian-pasta-tagliatelle-alla

Baked Macaroni and Cheese

2011-08-08T10:51:00.000-07:00

ITALIAN PASTA RECIPE : BAKED MACARONI DAN CHEESE
Another great Italian pasta recipe to try ...baked macaroni and cheese..!

ITALIAN PASTA RECIPE INGREDIENTS

1/2 pound elbow macaroni
3 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons flour
1 tablespoon powdered mustard
3 cups milk
1/2 cup yellow onion, finely diced
1 bay leaf
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 large egg
12 ounces sharp cheddar, shredded
1 teaspoon kosher salt
Fresh black pepper
Topping:
3 tablespoons butter
1 cup panko bread crumbs

ITALIAN PASTA RECIPES INSTRUCTIONS
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. In a large pot of boiling, salted water cook the pasta to al dente.
While the pasta is cooking, in a separate pot, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and mustard and keep it moving for about five minutes. Make sure it's free of lumps. Stir in the milk, onion, bay
leaf, and paprika. Simmer for ten minutes and remove the bay leaf.
Temper in the egg. Stir in 3/4 of the cheese. Season with salt and pepper. Fold the macaroni into the mix and pour into a 2-quart casserole dish. Top with remaining cheese.
Melt the butter in a saute pan and toss the bread crumbs to coat. Top the macaroni with the bread crumbs. Bake for 30 minutes. Remove from oven and rest for five minutes before serving.
Remember to save leftovers for fried Macaroni and Cheese...and the Italian pasta is ready for feasts....amazing ! Enjoy it !
Italian Pasta Recipe : creamy-macaroni-and-cheese.

Creamy Macaroni and Cheese

2011-08-01T10:40:00.000-07:00

ITALIAN PASTA RECIPE : CREAMY MACARONI AND CHEESE

Try this Italian Pasta recipe...the classic macaroni and cheese...as always..great taste !

ITALIAN PASTA RECIPES INGREDIENTS

2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni (an 8-ounce box isn't quite 2 cups)
4 tablespoons (1/2 stuck) butter, cut into pieces
2 1/2 cups (about 10 ounces) grated sharp Cheddar cheese
3 eggs, beaten
1/2 cup sour cream
1 (10 3/4-ounce) can condensed Cheddar cheese soup
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup whole milk
1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

ITALIAN PASTA RECIPES INSTRUCTIONS
Boil the macaroni in a 2 quart saucepan in plenty of water until tender, about 7 minutes. Drain. In a medium saucepan, mix butter and cheese. Stir until the cheese melts. In a slow cooker, combine cheese/butter mixture and add the eggs, sour cream, soup, salt, milk, mustard and pepper and stir well. Then add drained macaroni and stir again. Set the slow cooker on low setting and cook for 3 hours, stirring occasionally. And the great Italian pasta is ready to serve...mama mia...nice ! Enjoy it !

Italian Pasta Tagliatelle alla Bolognese

2011-04-16T04:27:00.000-07:00

Italian Pasta Tagliatelle alla Bolognese

Italian Pasta Recipe INGREDIENTS

3 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound ground chuck
1 pound ground pork
1 pound ground veal
1/4 pound pancetta, chopped coarsely
1 small onion, chopped fine
1 carrot, chopped fine
1 celery stalk, chopped fine
6 tablespoons good quality tomato paste
6 cups meat broth, hot
1/2 cup heavy cream
salt and pepper to taste
1 pound fresh tagliatelle pasta

Italian Pasta Recipe INSTRUCTIONS
1.In a large deap saute pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add beef, pork, veal and pancetta and cook until all the meat is lightly browned. Drain excess fat and add onion, carrots and celery. Lower the heat to medium and cook, stirring until the onions are translucent and the carrots and celery are softened.
2.Stir in the tomato paste, turn the heat to high and add one cup of the hot meat broth. Cook, stirring occasionally to scrape up any residues sticking to the bottom of the pan, until all the broth has evaporated. Repeat this process twice more adding one cup of broth at a time. After the third cup of broth evaporates, add the remaining 3 cups of broth, lower the heat to a simmer and cook uncovered until sauce is thick approximately 2 hours.
3.Add the cream and simmer for 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring a pot of generously salted water to a boil, add the tagliatelle and cook until al dente. Strain pasta, toss with the bolognese sauce in a large bowl and serve...enjoy it !
italian-pasta-with-zucchini

Italian Pasta with Zucchini and Mozzarella

2009-12-16T04:29:00.000-08:00

Italian Pasta with Zucchini and Mozzarella

Italian Pasta Recipe INGREDIENTS

1 cup olive oil
2 medium zucchini, sliced thinly
flour spread on a plate for dredging
salt & pepper to taste
1 pound of penne pasta
4 cups Marinara Sauce
1/2 pound fresh mozzarella
1/4 cup pecorino-romano cheese

Italian Pasta Recipe INSTRUCTIONS
1.Heat olive oil in medium saute pan over medium heat. Dredge zucchini in flour, shaking off any excess and fry in batches. Using a slotted spoon transfer them to paper towels, and season with salt & pepper.
2.Meanwhile, preheat oven to 400°F and bring a pot of liberally salted water to a boil, add pasta and cook until almost al dente, the pasta should be slightly undercooked.
3. Strain pasta and transfer to a 3 to 4 quart baking dish. Add 2 cups of marinara sauce, zucchini, 1/4 pound of mozzarella and 1/8 cup pecorino-romano, and toss until well combined.
4. Top with the remaining sauce and sprinkle on the remaining cheeses. Place the baking dish in the oven and bake until the cheese on top is melted and slightly browned, 8-10 minutes...and the Italian Pasta recipe of zucchini is ready to serve..enjoy it ! !
Italian pasta-with-grape-tomatoes

Pasta Piselli

2008-12-16T04:50:00.000-08:00

Pasta Piselli...another great Italian pasta recipe....mama mia !

Italian Pasta Recipe INGREDIENTS

1 package of frozen fresh peas
1/4 cup olive oil
1/2 large onion chopped.
1/4 cup of marinara sauce
1 pound of datali pasta or small shells

Italian Pasta Recipe INSTRUCTIONS
1.Bring a small pot of water to a boil, drop frozen peas in water and cook until just under done.
2.At the same time, heat olive oil in Large Saute Pan over Medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
3.Add the marinara sauce and the peas with 1/4 cup of the water that you cooked the peas in. Season with salt & pepper to taste and cook for 15 minutes.
4.While the sauce is cooking, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add 1 tablespoon of salt and the pasta.
5.Cook uncovered over high heat until al dente.
6.Drain pasta, put back in pot add some of the sauce to the pot and mix it up. Dish out pasta spooning remaining sauce over top. The Italian pasta recipe is ready to serve....hmm...delicious ! Enjoy !

minestrone-soup-with-pasta-beans

Penne con Fagiolini

2008-12-16T04:43:00.000-08:00

Italian Pasta Recipe -Penne con Fagiolini ...another amazing Italian pasta recipe...try it...mama mia !

Italian Pasta Recipe INGREDIENTS

1-1/2 pounds string beans.
1/2 cup olive oil
3 cloves of garlic
salt and pepper to taste
1 pound of penne pasta

Italian Pasta Recipe INSTRUCTIONS
1.Clean string beans by breaking off ends.
2.Bring one pot of water to a boil and place string beans and 1 tablespoon of salt in water and cook until tender. Bring a second pot of water to a boil add 2 tablespoons of salt and the penne, cook until just al dente.
3.While string beans and pasta are cooking, peal garlic cloves and crack them by pressing down on them with the side of a chef's knife.
4.Heat oil in large frying pan over medium heat.
5.Add garlic and cook until lightly browned.
6.Drain the string beans, reserving 1/4 cup of the water they were cooked in.
7.Add string beans, pasta, salt & pepper and the water to oil and garlic in pan.
8.Stir together for about 1 minute and the Italian pasta recipe is ready to serve.

turkey-and-spinach-lasagna

Linguini White Clam Sauce

2008-12-16T04:40:00.000-08:00

Linguini White Clam Sauce...an amazing Italian pasta recipe...try it ! Mama mia !

INGREDIENTS

3/4 cup of olive oil
4 cloves of Garlic chopped
1 and 1/2 Dozen Cherrystone Clams shelled and chopped with juices reserved
1 pound of linguini
2 Tablespoons chopped parsley

INSTRUCTIONS
1.Heat olive oil in large saute pan over medium heat.
2.Add garlic, cook until lightly browned.
3.Add Clams with their juices, bring to a boil then lower heat to a simmer and cook for 5 more minutes.
4.While the sauce is cooking, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add 1 tablespoon of salt and the linguini.
5.Cook uncovered over high heat until Al dente.
6.Drain pasta, put back in pot add some of the sauce to the pot and mix it up.
7.Dish out pasta spooning remaining sauce over top. Garnish with chopped parsley.
The Italian pasta recipe of linguini white clam sauce is ready to serve...enjoy it !

penne-con-fagiolini.

Trenette Al Pesto

2008-12-16T04:38:00.000-08:00

Trenette Al Pesto..a nice Italian pasta recipe to try !

INGREDIENTS

2 cups tightly packed fresh basil leaves
1/4 cup plus 4 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 cup of pine nuts
pinch of salt
2 cloves of garlic chopped fine
1/2 pound of trenette
1/4 cup freshly grated parmigiano-reggiano cheese

INSTRUCTIONS
1.Wash the basil in cold water and gently pat it dry with paper towels.
2.Put 1/4 cup of olive oil, pine nuts, garlic and a nice pinch of salt in a food processor or blender, start mixing and add the basil a few leaves at a time processing to a creamy consistency.
3.In a large saute pan add 4 tablespoons of olive oil and 4 tablespoons of pesto, turn heat on low and heat through.
4.Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add 1 tablespoon of salt and the trenette. Cook until al dente.
5.Reserve 2 tablespoons of water from the pot then drain pasta and add to saute pan with pesto, and turn the heat up to high.
6.Add the 2 tablespoons of the water the pasta was cooked in, and the parmigiano cheese and stir vigorously coating the pasta completely with the sauce.
7.Transfer the pasts to individual serving plates and theItalian pasta recipe is ready to serve immediately. Enjoy the meal !

linguini-white-clam-sauce.

Bucatini all'Amatriciana

2008-12-16T04:36:00.000-08:00

Bucatini all'Amatriciana...an amazing Italian pasta recipe to try...a nice one !

INGREDIENTS

2 tblsp of olive oil
1/4 of a pound pancetta, chopped
1 small yellow onion, chopped
2 cloves of garlic, chopped
1 28 oz can of imported Italian tomatoes
salt & pepper to taste
1 pound of bucatini pasta
1 cup freshly grated Pecorino Romano cheese

INSTRUCTIONS
1.Heat olive oil in large saucepan over medium heat. Add the pancetta and cook, stirring often, until golden brown, about 10 minutes. Add the onion and saute until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and saute until golden about 1 minute longer.
2.Crush tomatoes and add with juices to pan. Add salt & pepper and a little water. Bring to a simmer and cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens, about 15 to 20 minutes.
3.While the sauce is cooking, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add 1 tablespoon of salt and the bucatini. Cook uncovered over high heat until al dente.
4.Drain the pasta, then add the pasta and 1/4 cup of the Pecorino Pomano to the sauce in the saucepan and toss well. Transfer to warm serving plates and the Italian pasta recipe is ready to serve immediately, with the remaining Pecorino Romano on the side.Enjoy it !
trenette-al-pesto.

Gnocchi di Ricotta

2008-12-16T04:34:00.000-08:00

Gnocchi di Ricotta...a great Italian pasta recipe to try....nice one !

INGREDIENTS

3 1/4 cups of flour
2 eggs
1.5 pound of ricotta cheese, well drained
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese plus extra for sprinkling
pinch of salt & pepper
1 teaspoon of olive oil
4 cups Marinara Sauce

INSTRUCTIONS
1.Place 3 cups of the flour in a large bowl. Lightly beat the egs with a fork then add them to the flour along with the ricotta, 1/2 cup of Parmigiano-Reggiano, salt and pepper. Mix ingredients together with your hands to form a dough.
2.Transfer the dough to a lightly floured working surface and knead lightly for 2 to 3 more minutes, gradually adding remaining flour if the dough sticks to the board or your hands. The dough is ready when it no longer sticks but is still somewhat tacky to the touch and soft.
3.Divide the dough into four pieces and roll into balls. Using both hands, roll out each ball of dough into a log about the width of your index finger. Cut each log into 1/2 inch pieces.
4.Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
5.Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add a teaspoon of olive oil oil and the gnocchi.
6.Cook, uncovered over high heat until the gnocchi rise to the surface of the water, about 2 to 3 minutes. While the gnocchi are cooking heat the marinara in a large saute pan over medium heat.
7.Remove the gnocchi from the water with a slotted spoon and transfer to the saute pan with the marinara sauce.
8.Toss gnocchi in sauce until coated, then transfer to a caserole dish sprinkle with Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese to taste. Bake in oven for 10 minutes and the Italian pasta recipe is ready to serve....nice ! Enjoy it !
bucatini-allamatriciana.

Linguini Puttanesca

2008-12-16T04:33:00.000-08:00

Linguini Puttanesca...a great Italian Pasta recipe...try this one !

INGREDIENTS

2 tablespoons of olive oil
1 clove of garlic, chopped
6 anchovy fillets, chopped
1 35 oz can imported italian plum tomatoes, crushed with their juices
1 tablespoon capers
12 gaetta olives, pitted
1/2 teaspoon of oregano
freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 pound Linguini pasta

INSTRUCTIONS
1.Heat olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium high heat. Add garlic and anchovy, cook until garlic is lightly browned.
2.Crush tomatoes and add with juices. Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally, then reduce to a simmer.
3.Add capers, olives, oregano, black pepper, and 1/2 cup of water. Cook at a simmer for 20 minutes.
4. While the sauce is cooking bring a pot of generously salted water to a boil. Add the Linguini and cook uncovered over high heat until al dente.
5. Drain pasta, toss with sauce and the Italian pasta recipe is ready to serve....enjoy..! Great one !
gnocchi-di-ricotta.

Pasta with Grape Tomatoes

2008-12-16T04:32:00.000-08:00

Pasta with Grape Tomatoes

INGREDIENTS

1/4 cup olive oil
2 large garlic cloves sliced thin
1 pint grape or cherry tomatoes, sliced in half
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
2 large basil leaves, chopped
salt to taste
1 pound spaghettini pasta
freshly grated Parmagiano-Reggiano cheese for serving

INSTRUCTIONS
1.Add olive oil and garlic to a large saute pan over medium heat. Cook until garlic is lightly browned, then add the sliced tomatoes, red pepper flake, basil, and salt.
2.Saute the tomatoes until they are softened and have started to release their juices, about 5 minutes.
3.Meanwhile, bring a pot of liberally salted water to a boil, add pasta and cook until al dente.
4.Strain pasta and transfer to the saute pan with the sauce and toss until completely coated.
5.Dish out into individual serving bowls and serve with grated Parmagiano-Reggiano.
The Italian pasta recipe of grape and tomatoes is ready....mama mia ! Nice

Pasta with Grape Tomatoes

2008-12-16T04:31:00.000-08:00

Pasta with Grape Tomatoes

An amazing Italian pasta recipe to try !
INGREDIENTS

1/4 cup olive oil
2 large garlic cloves sliced thin
1 pint grape or cherry tomatoes, sliced in half
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
2 large basil leaves, chopped
salt to taste
1 pound spaghettini pasta
freshly grated Parmagiano-Reggiano cheese for serving

INSTRUCTIONS
1.Add olive oil and garlic to a large saute pan over medium heat. Cook until garlic is lightly browned, then add the sliced tomatoes, red pepper flake, basil, and salt.
2.Saute the tomatoes until they are softened and have started to release their juices, about 5 minutes.
3.Meanwhile, bring a pot of liberally salted water to a boil, add pasta and cook until al dente.
4.Strain pasta and transfer to the saute pan with the sauce and toss until completely coated.
5.Dish out into individual serving bowls and serve with grated Parmagiano-Reggiano. The Italian pasta recipe with grape tomatoes is ready to serve...!

Italian Pasta Recipe-Baked Ziti

2008-12-16T04:26:00.000-08:00

Italian Pasta Recipe -Baked Ziti
A nice Italian pasta recipe to try !

Italian Pasta Recipe INGREDIENTS

1 pound of ziti pasta
4 cups Marinara Sauce
8 ounces fresh mozzarella, chopped or shredded
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
1 pound ricotta cheese (optional)

Italian Pasta Recipe INSTRUCTIONS
1. Bring a pot of liberally salted water to a boil, add pasta and cook until almost al dente then strain, the pasta should be slightly undercooked.
2. Preheat oven to 375°F. Transfer pasta to a 3 to 4 quart baking dish. Add 2 cups of marinara sauce, 4 ounces of mozzarella, and 1/4 cup Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese (if using the optional ricotta cheese add it all at this point also), and toss until well combined.
3. Top with the remaining sauce and sprinkle on the remaining cheeses. Place the baking dish in the oven and bake until the cheese on top is melted and slightly browned, 15-20 minutes.

Italian Pasta-Spaghetti Alla Gricia

2008-12-16T04:25:00.000-08:00

Italian Pasta-Spaghetti Alla Gricia
A nice Italian Pasta Recipe to try !
INGREDIENTS

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
4 ounces guanciale, cut into1/4 inch slices, then chopped coarsely
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 pound spaghetti
1 cup freshly grated Pecorino Romano cheese

INSTRUCTIONS
1. Heat the olive oil in a large sautè pan over medium heat. Add the guanciale and the hot pepper and sautè until guanciale is crisp. Remove from the heat.
2.Bring a large pot of liberally salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook uncovered over high heat until al dente.
3.Place the pan with the guanciale back over medium heat. Drain the pasta and add it to the pan with ½ cup of the Pecorino Romano. Stir the pasta vigorously until guanciale and cheese are well distributed.
4.The Italian pasta recipe is ready to serve immediately with remaining Pecorino Romano on the side...nice ! Enjoy the spaghetti !

CORKSCREW PASTA WITH VEGETABLES IN ITALIAN VINAIGRETTE

2008-12-01T07:48:00.000-08:00

CORKSCREW PASTA WITH VEGETABLES IN ITALIAN VINAIGRETTE ...an amazing Italian pasta recipes to try...nice one !

INGREDIENTS

1 lb. fusilli (corkscrew)
3/4 c. olive oil
6 green onions, thinly sliced
1 red sweet pepper, finely chopped
2 carrots, peeled & coarsely shredded
3 yellow crookneck squash, coarsely chopped
1 lb. fresh broccoli florets, blanched until just tender, then quickly cooled in ice water & drained
3 tbsp. minced fresh chives
1 c. firmly packed chopped fresh basil
1 c. freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp. Dijon style mustard
1/4 c. balsamic vinegar
2-3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp. granulated sugar
Salt
Freshly ground black pepper
Crushed dried red pepper flakes
1 red sweet pepper, cut into thin julienne (garnish)
Whole fresh basil leaves (garnish)
Capers (garnish)

INSTRUCTIONS
For a festive party dish in traditional Italian colors, use equal portions of spinach, egg and tomato pastas. The tangy dressing goes perfectly with grilled or barbecued meats.

1. Cook pasta in 4 quarts boiling water until very al dente. Drain and toss in a large bowl with 1/4 cup olive oil. Cool to room temperature, occasionally stirring the pasta to coat thoroughly.
2. Add green onions, chopped red pepper, carrots, squash, most of the broccoli florets (reserve a few for garnishing), chives, chopped basil and 3/4 cup cheese. Mix thoroughly with hands.
3. Whisk together mustard, vinegar, garlic, sugar and salt, pepper and red pepper flakes to taste. Continue to whisk while slowly dribbling in the remaining 1/2 cup olive oil. Pour over pasta and mix thoroughly.
4. Allow pasta to sit at room temperature for at least 2 hours or chill as long as overnight, then return to room temperature before serving. Garnish with pepper strips, reserved broccoli florets, basil leaves, the remaining 1/4 cup Parmesan and capers. Serves 10-12 as
salad or side dish. The Italian pasta recipe is ready to serve....hmmm...mama mia....delicious ! Enjoy it !

fettuccine-alfredo.

ITALIAN PASTA BAKE

2008-12-01T07:46:00.000-08:00

ITALIAN PASTA BAKE
A nice Italian pasta recipe to try !
INGREDIENTS

1 box Mueller's creamy Italian pasta bake salad
8 oz. tomato paste
1 med. onion
1 tbsp. mayonnaise
1/4 c. milk
2 eggs
1 1/2 lb. hamburger meat
2 or 3 tbsp. water

INSTRUCTIONS
Prepare noodles as directed. Save the seasoning mix. Combine seasoning mix with milk, eggs and mayonnaise. Brown hamburger and onion, drain. Add tomato paste and water. In baking dish, layer noodles, then hamburger. Top with seasoning mixture. Bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. The Italian pasta recipe bake is ready, enhoy the pasta !

ITALIAN TOMATO SAUCE FOR PASTA

2008-12-01T07:43:00.000-08:00

ITALIAN TOMATO SAUCE FOR PASTA
A great Italian pasta recipe sauce for pasta to to try !!
INGREDIENTS

1 (1 lb. 13 oz.) can tomato puree
1/2 (1 lb. 13 oz.) can water, if thick puree
2 cloves garlic
1 tsp. parsley, chopped fresh or dried
1/2 tsp. dried basil
1/2 tsp. dried oregano
1/2 tsp. ground allspice
Salt to taste

Can also use

1 (1 pound) tomato sauce plus
1 can tomato paste and water according to size (2 1/2 cans).
Simmer 1/2 hour for plain sauce.
1 1/2 lb. chopped chuck or meat loaf combination
3/4 c. Italian style bread crumbs
1/4 c. water
1 egg
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
1 tsp. parsley, chopped
1/2 tsp. basil
1/2 tsp. oregano
1/2 tsp. allspice
1 tsp. salt

INSTRUCTIONS
In a large non-reactive Dutch oven, brown sliced garlic cloves and sausage in a small amount of olive oil. Puncture sausage with fork to release fat. Drain. Add all ingredients for plain tomato sauce. Simmer.
Meantime, in large bowl, mix chopped meat and all ingredients in a large bowl. Moisten hands and roll into balls (at least 20), adding them carefully to simmering sauce.
After 15 minutes, stir occasionally. Simmer at least 1 1/2 hours or longer. Serve over cooked pasta. The Italian pasta recipe sauce is ready...enjoy the pasta !

ITALIAN PASTA SALAD

2008-12-01T07:41:00.000-08:00

ITALIAN PASTA SALAD
A great Italian pasta recipes to try
INGREDIENTS

7 oz. box noodles
1 sm. can sliced ripe olives
1/4 c. green pepper, diced
1/4 c. onion, diced
1 oz. pepperoni (optional)
1 sm. can sliced mushrooms
Italian salad dressing
Parmesan cheese

INSTRUCTIONS
Cook noodles according to package directions and then drain. Drain juice from olives and mushrooms and add to the pasta. Add peppers and onions and stir. Add dressing until other ingredients are thoroughly coated. Add pepperoni (cut up) and Parmesan cheese to taste. You may also salt and pepper if you wish. The Italian pasta recipe of salad is ready..enjoy it !
Italian pasta-gnocchi-di-ricotta

ITALIAN PASTA WITH CHICKEN

2008-12-01T07:38:00.000-08:00

ITALIAN PASTA WITH CHICKEN a great Italian pasta recipe to try. Nice one !

INGREDIENTS

8-10 oz. spaghetti (1/2 1 1lb box)
1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
3-4 chicken breast, 1/2" cubes
2-3 large tomatoes, chopped
1 cup Italian salad dressing, or to taste

INSTRUCTIONS
Cook chicken cubes in large skillet with a dash or two of olive oil. Cook pasta according to package directions and drain.Toss everything together in a large bowl and the Italian pasta recipe is ready to serve....great taste ! Enjoy it !

turkey-and-spinach-lasagna

Spaghetti Bolognese

2008-09-13T11:59:00.000-07:00

Try this classic Italian pasta recipe.... as always a great taste !

INGREDIENTS

1 tablespoon olive oil
4 ounces bacon or pancetta, diced
1 1/2 cups chopped yellow onions
3/4 cup diced carrots
3/4 cup diced celery
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 bay leaves
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 pound ground beef or ground veal
1/2 pound pork sausage, removed from the casings, or ground pork
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 cup red wine
2 (14 1/2-ounce) cans crushed tomatoes and their juice
1 (14 1/2-ounce) can tomato sauce
1 cup beef or chicken stock or broth
2 teaspoons sugar
1/4 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves
1 pound spaghetti
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan

INSTRUCTIONS
In a large pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the bacon and cook, stirring, until browned and the fat is rendered, 4 to 5 minutes. Add the onions, carrots and celery and cook, stirring, until soft, 4 to 5 minutes. Add the garlic, salt, pepper, bay leaves, thyme, oregano, cinnamon, and nutmeg and cook, stirring, for 30 seconds. Add the beef and sausages, and cook, stirring, until no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
Add the tomato paste and cook, stirring, for 1 to 2 minutes. Add the wine and cook, stirring, to deglaze the pan and remove any browned bits sticking to the bottom of the pan, and until half of the liquid is evaporated, about 2 minutes.

Add the tomatoes and their juices, the tomato sauce, beef broth, and sugar and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring occasionally, to keep the sauce from sticking to the bottom of the pan, until the sauce is thickened and flavorful, about 1 1/2 hours. Add the cream, butter, and parsley, stir well, and simmer for 2 minutes. Discard the bay leaves and adjust the seasoning, to taste. Remove from the heat and cover to keep warm
until ready to serve.
Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and return the water to a low boil. Cook, stirring occasionally to prevent the noodles from sticking, until al dente, 8 to 10 minutes. Drain in a colander.Add the pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat. Add 1/2 cup of the cheese and toss to blend. Divide among pasta bowls and the Italian pasta recipe of spaghetti bolognese is ready to serve with the cheese passed tableside. ...great feasts ! Enjoy !

portobello-mushroom-lasagna.

Fettuccine Alfredo

2008-09-13T11:37:00.000-07:00

Try this classic fettuccine Alfredo ...an amazing Italian pasta recipe...a great taste !

INGREDIENTS

3/4 cup vegetable broth or reduced-sodium chicken broth
4 large cloves garlic, peeled
4 ounces whole-wheat fettuccine
1 small zucchini, cut into matchsticks
2 teaspoons cornstarch, mixed with 1 tablespoon water
2 tablespoons reduced-fat sour cream
Pinch of freshly grated nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon freshly ground pepper, or to taste
3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

INSTRUCTIONS
Bring a large saucepan of water to a boil. Combine broth and garlic cloves in a small saucepan; bring to a boil over high heat. Cover, reduce heat to a simmer and cook until the garlic cloves are soft, about 15 minutes.
After the garlic has simmered about 10 minutes, cook fettuccine in the boiling water, stirring often, for 8 minutes. Drop in zucchini and cook until the fettuccine is just tender, about 1 minute more.
Meanwhile, transfer the garlic and broth to a blender. Process until the mixture is smooth, about 1 minute. Return the mixture to the pot and bring to a simmer over medium-high heat. Add cornstarch mixture; whisk it until slightly thickened, about 15 seconds. Remove from the heat and whisk in sour cream, nutmeg and pepper. Return the pot to very low heat to keep the sauce warm. (Do not boil.)
Drain the pasta and place in a large bowl. Add the sauce and 1/2 cup Parmesan; toss to coat well. Sprinkle with parsley and serve immediately, passing the remaining 1/4 cup Parmesan separately.The Italian pasta recipe is ready to serve...hmm...mama mia...great Afredo's fettucine ! Nice taste ! Enjoy it !

cheese-tortellini-in-light-broth.

Turkey and Spinach Lasagna

2008-09-13T11:32:00.000-07:00

Great tasting Italian pasta recipe of lasagna..with Turkey & Spinach ! Great one !

INGREDIENTS

12 whole-wheat lasagna noodles
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 cup chopped onion
1 chopped red pepper
1 pound ground turkey breast, white meat only
1/2 pound hot Italian turkey sausage
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
2 teaspoons chopped garlic
1 teaspoon Essence, recipe follows
3 1/2 cups prepared marinara sauce
3 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese, divided
2 cups part skim ricotta
2 cups thawed and drained chopped frozen spinach
1/4 cup grated Romano
2 egg whites
1/2 cup chopped basil leaves
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley leaves
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt

INSTRUCTIONS
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
In a large pot, bring several quarts of salted water to a boil. Add noodles and cook until very al dente, 7 minutes. Remove from water and place on a towel lined baking sheet.
Place the olive oil, onion and red pepper in a large saute pan over medium-high heat. Saute until the vegetables begin to sweat, about 5 minutes. Add ground turkey, turkey sausage, garlic and Essence, stirring to combine until turkey cooks through, about 10 minutes.
Add marinara sauce; bring to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer 10 minutes. Remove from heat.
In a large bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups mozzarella and remaining ingredients and set aside.
Spray a 13 by 9-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Spread 1 cup turkey mixture in bottom of the dish and arrange 4 noodles over turkey mixture; top with 1 1/2 cups turkey mixture. Spread half of cheese mixture over turkey mixture. Repeat layers, ending with the remaining turkey mixture.
Cover and bake for 45 minutes. Sprinkle with remaining 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, and bake, uncovered, for 20 minutes. Let lasagna stand 10 to 15 minutes and the great Italian pasta recipe is ready to serve....hmmm...great taste of lasagna. Enjoy it !

minestrone-soup-with-pasta-beans

Portobello Mushroom Lasagna

2008-09-13T11:26:00.000-07:00

Another amazing Italian pasta recipe to try....its recommended !

INGREDIENTS

Kosher salt
Good olive oil
3/4 pound dried lasagna noodles
4 cups whole milk
12 tablespoons (11/2 sticks) unsalted butter, divided
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 1/2 pounds portobello mushrooms
1 cup freshly ground Parmesan

INSTRUCTIONS
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
Bring a large pot of water to a boil with 1 tablespoon salt and a splash of oil. Add the lasagna noodles and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Drain and set aside.
For the white sauce, bring the milk to a simmer in a saucepan. Set aside. Melt 8 tablespoons (1 stick) of the butter in a large saucepan. Add the flour and cook for 1 minute over low heat,
stirring constantly with a wooden spoon. Pour the hot milk into the butter-flour mixture all at once. Add 1 tablespoon salt, the pepper, and nutmeg, and cook over medium-low heat, stirring first with the wooden spoon and then with a whisk, for 3 to 5 minutes, until thick. Set aside off the heat.
Separate the mushroom stems from the caps and discard the stems. Slice the caps 1/4-inch thick. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil and 2 tablespoons of the butter in a large (12-inch) saute pan. When the butter melts, add half the mushrooms, sprinkle with salt, and cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes, until the mushrooms are tender and they release some of their juices. If they become too dry, add a little more oil. Toss occasionally to make sure the mushrooms cook evenly. Repeat with the remaining mushrooms and set all the mushrooms aside.

To assemble the lasagna, spread some of the sauce in the bottom of an 8 by 12 by 2-inch baking dish. Arrange a layer of noodles on top, then more sauce, then 1/3 of the mushrooms, and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan. Repeat 2 more times, layering noodles, sauce, mushrooms, and Parmesan. Top with a final layer of noodles and sauce, and sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan.
Bake the lasagna for 45 minutes, or until the top is browned the sauce is bubbly and hot. Allow to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes and the Italian pasta recipe of lasagne is ready to serve hot....Nice taste...mama mia ! enjoy it !

pasta-tuna-roasted-pepper-salad.

Cheese Tortellini in Light Broth

2008-09-13T11:21:00.000-07:00

Another great Italian pasta recipe of soup to try....nice one !
INGREDIENTS

8 cups low-salt chicken broth
Freshly ground black pepper
2 (9-ounce) packages refrigerated cheese tortellini
2 tablespoons chopped fresh Italian parsley leaves

INSTRUCTIONS
Pour the broth into a heavy large saucepan. Cover and bring to a boil over high heat. Season the broth with pepper, to taste. Add the tortellini. Simmer over medium heat until al dente, about 7
minutes.
Ladle the broth and tortellini into soup bowls. Top with parsley and Parmesan crisps and serve.

Parmesan Crisps:

1/2 cup grated Parmesan

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Pour a heaping tablespoon of Parmesan onto a silicone or parchment lined baking sheet and lightly pat down. A silicone baking sheet is highly recommended. Repeat with the remaining cheese, spacing the spoonfuls about a 1/2 inch apart.
Bake for 3 to 5 minutes or until golden and crisp. Cool...and the Italian pasta recipe of tortellini soup is ready for starters...Great taste ! Enjoy!

corkscrew-pasta-with-vegetables

Minestrone Soup with Pasta, Beans and Vegetables

2008-09-13T11:17:00.000-07:00

Try this Italian pasta soup recipe.... a nice one for starters !

INGREDIENTS

3 cups reduced-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes
1 (15-ounce) can white (cannellini or navy) beans, drained
2 carrots, peeled and chopped
1 celery stalk, chopped
1 cup onion, chopped
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried sage
2 bay leaves
Salt and ground black pepper
2 cups cooked ditalini pasta
1 medium zucchini, chopped
2 cups coarsely chopped fresh or frozen spinach, defrosted
4 tablespoons grated Parmesan or Romano cheese
Basil sprigs, garnish, optional

INSTRUCTIONS
In a slow cooker, combine broth, tomatoes, beans, carrots, celery, onion, thyme, sage, bay leaves, and 1/2 teaspoon each salt and black pepper. Cover and cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours.
Thirty minutes before the soup is done cooking, add ditalini, zucchini and spinach. Cover and cook 30 more minutes. Remove bay leaves and season, to taste, with salt and black pepper. Ladle soup into bowls and sprinkle parmesan cheese over top. Garnish with basil, if desired...and the amazing Italian pasta soup is ready for starters meal !. Enjoy it with families !

Pasta, Tuna & Roasted Pepper Salad

2008-09-13T11:14:00.000-07:00

Try this Italian pasta recipe...a must try !
INGREDIENTS

1 6-ounce can chunk light tuna in water, drained
1 7-ounce jar roasted red peppers, rinsed and sliced (2/3 cup), divided
1/2 cup finely chopped red onion or scallions
2 tablespoons capers, rinsed, coarsely chopped if large
2 tablespoons nonfat plain yogurt
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 1/2 teaspoons lemon juice
1 small clove garlic, crushed and peeled
1/8 teaspoon salt, or to taste
Freshly ground pepper to taste
6 ounces whole-wheat penne or rigatoni (1 3/4 cups)

INSTRUCTIONS
Put a large pot of lightly salted water on to boil. Combine tuna, 1/3 cup red peppers, onion (or scallions) and capers in a large bowl.

Combine yogurt, basil, oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, pepper and the remaining 1/3 cup red peppers in a blender or food processor. Puree until smooth.Cook pasta until just tender, 10 to 14 minutes or according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water. Add to the tuna mixture along with the red pepper sauce; toss to coat...and hmmm...mama mia..what a nice pasta ! Enjoy it !