Tomato And Basil Farfalle (Bow tie) Pasta

Summer is fast approaching.  And around here, that means warm summer evenings spent on the sidelines of countless soccer fields.  That also means quick meals packed with quick carbs for energy.  And for our family that often means pasta.  One of my favorite, and quick, summer pasta meals starts with Farfalle (or bow tie) pasta, tomatoes, and fresh basil.

Then, I basically add whatever I either have on hand or what looks really fresh at the store.  This time I used Aidells Italian Style Smoked Chicken Sausage,  fresh asparagus, and smoked mozzarella cheese.

I start by cooking the pasta in boiling water until al dente, or tender.  Drain the pasta and set aside.  In a large nonstick skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.  Add chicken sausage, asparagus, salt, and pepper.  Saute 2-3 minutes.  Add tomatoes (I used grape because my kids like them better, but you can use cherry) and saute another 2 minutes or so, until heated through.  Remove from heat, add pasta and toss.  Add basil and mozzarella and toss.  Serve and enjoy!   I usually add warm, crusty bread and a fresh salad.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is it’s flexibilty.  You start with the basics and then add whatever you want.  It’s never the same meal twice, but it’s always delicious!  Here’s the basic recipe:

Tomato And Basil Farfalle (Bow tie) Pasta

3/4 pound Farfalle Pasta (or whatever amount you want to make for your family)

1 Tbsp. Olive oil

1 pint grape (or cherry) tomatoes

1/2 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. pepper

1/2 lb. mozzarella cheese, diced (I used smoked this time, but I often use fresh)

1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (This amount can vary depending on what meat I add)

To this basic recipe I then add whatever meat I choose.  This time I added a 12 ounce package of Aidells Italian Style Chicken Sausage.  I have also used chicken or shrimp.  It’s all about what your likes and what’s easy for you.  This time I also added fresh asparagus.  Sometimes I don’t add any extra vegetables.  Again, it’s all about quick, easy, and what I have on hand.  It’s hard to mess up this recipe.  That’s one of the reasons I love it on soccer nights.  My family gets a delicious, homemade, meal and I get out of the kitchen fast.

I’m linking up to Rhoda’s Summer Recipes party.

Have a great day!

Tagged as: Recipes, summer