Dad's Special Pasta

One of my favorite things in the whole world is coming home to one of my dad's meals. He makes up all of his recipes. Don't get me wrong, my mom cooks amazing dishes, and I wouldn't have such a passion for food if it were not for her. Perhaps it is the surprise of hearing, "Dad's making his special meal" that makes my mouth water. Certainly, your mouth will start watering too when smells of garlic, sauteed peppers, and fresh herbs swirl through your kitchen. This one's for you, dad...your famous dish.

Serves: 6

Ingredients:

1 pound thick-cut egg noodles
1 Tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 green peppers, sliced
1 red pepper, sliced
1 orange pepper, sliced
1 sweet onion, halved & sliced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
4 mild Italian sausages
1, 24-oz jar spaghetti sauce
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh basil, chopped (optional)

Directions:

1. In a Dutch oven, heat olive oil and garlic. Add sliced peppers and onion. Saute until you can cut the peppers with a wooden spoon. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning.

2. Meanwhile, cook pasta to al dente. Drain pasta, but do not rinse.

3. Grill Italian sausage until cooked through. Cut sausage into 1/2-inch slices. Add to vegetable mixture.

4. Heat spaghetti sauce. Pour into vegetable/meat mixture. Add pasta.

4. Pour pasta mixture on a large serving platter. Sprinkle with fresh basil, salt, and pepper.

Guess what? You are now a chef...this recipe is definitely a crowd-pleaser!