Dinner Time: Mrs. V's Garden Fresh Marinara Penne Rigate

Tonight's dinner was inspired my by friend who likes to do Meatless Monday's and for some reason that stuck in my head today as I was browsing my local farmers market Sunflower.  I happened to be in the produce section as this dinner just popped into my head.  It was fresh, amazing and took very little time.  What better way to go meatless than pasta?  As far as I am concerned, not much because we love pasta!  Oh, and not to mention easy on the pocket book too.

Mrs. V's Garden Fresh Marinara Penne Rigate

Ingredients

• 1 large 28 ounce can crushed tomatoes
• 1 small 8 oz can tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoons of tomato paste 
• 2 teaspoons chopped garlic
• 1/2 red bell pepper chopped
• 1/2 green bell pepper chopped
• 1/2 vidalia onion chopped
• 1/2 small zucchini chopped
• 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning blend
• 1/4 teaspoon sugar or splenda
• 1/8 teaspoon crushed red chili pepper

Directions

In medium sauce pot combine all ingredients.  On medium high heat bring to boil, drop down to low simmer, stir.  Let simmer for 1 hour.  Vegetables should still have a slight crunch to them.  If you prefer your veggies less crisp then simmer for 1 1/2 hour.  Stirring occasionally as it simmers.

Cook 1 lb. of penne rigate pasta per instructions.  Once cooked and drained plate your pasta and pour sauce over top, add some fresh parmesan/romano blend on top.  Serve with a fresh garden salad and garlic bread.

Tell me how you like it when you make it.  Until next time, see you 'round the kitchen table.

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