A Bag, a Box and a Jar

As much as I love to cook and bake, and work to have meals prepared ahead of time, there are days when a shortcut is needed.  This was just such a day.  I'd also add that preparing meals ahead of time can be as simple as buying pre-made entrees or combining some items from the pantry and freezer.

A bag of frozen vegetables + a box of fettecini + a jar of alfredo sauce = Pasta Primavera

 

Steam the veggies in a large pot using a steamer basket.  (I love my collapsible basket with folding legs.)  Fill a large stock-pot with about 1" of water.  Open the steamer basket and legs and place in the water.  Put the veggies in and cover with a lid.  Bring the water to a boil over high heat.  Turn off heat when veggies begin to get tender.  Let set with lid on the pot.

Boil a second pot of water for the fettecini and follow the directions on the box.  I  usually use Barilla, but have found that store brands are just as good.

Take the lid off of the jar and warm the sauce in the microwave for 1-2 minutes at a medium power.

When the pasta is done, about 12-14 minutes of cooking time, drain and return to the pot.  Cover with sauce and mix well.  Divide into 4-6 shallow bowls and cover with veggies.  Add a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and enjoy!

A nice side dish is garlic bread.  My favorite recipe is in the blog entry:  Surpise!  Pasta Party, Mom!  aka Best Garlic Bread