Rigatoni with Sausage and Peppers

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            FOOD FUNNY
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Thanks to Irene Lamar, the first of many to send me this one:

After starting a new diet I altered my drive to work to avoid passing
a favorite bakery. I accidentally drove by the bakery this morning
and there in the window were a host of goodies. I felt this was no
accident, so I prayed, "Lord, it's up to you. If you want me to have
any of those delicious goodies, create a parking place for me directly
in front of the bakery." And sure enough, God answered my prayer.
On the eighth time around the block, there it was!

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            TODAY'S RECIPE
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If you like the famous Italian-American sausage and pepper hero
sandwich, you'll love this dish.

Rigatoni with Sausage and Peppers

4 Tbs (40 ml) olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2-4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1-1 1/2 lbs (450-675 g) Italian sausage, casing
removed, crumbled
1/4 cup (60 ml) dry white wine
1/2 cup (125 ml) water
1/2 tsp (2 ml) crushed fennel seeds
1/2 tsp (2 ml) crushed red pepper flakes, or to taste
Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
1-2 red bell peppers (capsicums), cored, seeded,
and cut into thin strips
1-2 yellow bell peppers (capsicums), cored, seeded,
and cut into thin strips
1 lb (450 g) rigatoni, ziti, penne, or pasta shape of
your choice, cooked according to package directions
and drained
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)

Heat half the oil in a skillet over moderate heat and saute the onion
and garlic until tender but not browned, about 5 minutes. Add the
sausage meat and cook, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned,
about 5 minutes. Add the wine and cook 1 minute before adding the
water, fennel seeds, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cover and
simmer for 10 minutes. Meanwhile, heat the remaining oil in a
separate skillet and saute the bell peppers until tender and lightly
browned, about 15 minutes. Add to the sausage mixture along with the
cooked pasta and toss to combine. Garnish with Parmesan cheese if
desired. Serves 4 to 6.
Received on Tue Nov 2 13:41:03 2004