Wednesday, October 3, 2007

Pizza Pasta Toss

This was another one that my kids loved.... Jaxon actually told me I make the best dinners in the whole wide world. So there.

3 cups (8 oz.) penne pasta, uncooked
1/4 cup Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing (I just used regular Italian dressing)
2 oz. Pepperoni, quartered (If you don't like pepperoni, try bacon here instead; also it's easiest to quarter pepperoni using scissors)
10 mushrooms, sliced (about 2 cups)
1 green pepper, chopped (about 1 cup)
2 cups spaghetti sauce
1 cup Shredded Italian Five Cheese Blend or mozzarella
(we also add sliced olives)

COOK pasta as directed on package.
MEANWHILE, heat dressing in large nonstick skillet on medium heat. Add pepperoni, mushrooms and peppers; cook and stir 8 min. or until vegetables are crisp-tender. Add sauce; mix well. Cover. Reduce heat to low; simmer 3 min.
DRAIN pasta; place in large serving bowl. Add sauce mixture and cheese; toss to coat.