Yummy in my Tummy

OK, I know my last post was a recipe, but I have to post this one too. I was in Costco a few months ago and they were giving out recipe books so I took one (In the Kitchen, the Costco Way). I figured I would look thru it, but my expectations weren't high. This is one of the best cookbooks I have ever owned. I have made about 13 recipes from it and they have all turned out amazing. Also, it has pictures and I really love that. So...here is a Baked Ziti recipe that will made your mouth water (trust me).

2 T. Olive Oil

1 1/2cupes diced brown mushrooms

1 T. crushed garlic

1/4 cup white wine

1 T. finely chopped shallot

1/4 cup chicken broth

3/4 pound sausage (I like the Jimmy Dean's 1/2 fat sausage)

2 T. chopped fresh basil (my favorite herb!)

1/2 tsp salt

4-ounce part skim-ricotta cheese

1/2 tsp ground black pepper

3/4 cup shredded provolone cheese

1 1/2 cups crushed tomatos

8 ounce ziti or penne pasta (cooked)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan

1/2 cup smoked provolone cheese

Preheat oven to 350. In a preheated nonstick skillet over medium heat, saute olive oil, garlic, shallots and sausage for 2-3 minutes, or until lightly browned. Add salt, pepper, eggplant and mushrooms; saute for another 1-2 minutes. Turn heat up to high, add wine and stir until evaporated. Add chicken broth and cook until slightly reduced. Return heat to medium and simmer for 1-2 more minutes. Gently fold in basil, ricotta, mild provolone and tomatoes. Simmer for 1-2 minutes. Fold in cooked pasta and Parmesan cheese. Transfer to casserole and top with smoked provolone. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until heated though. Makes 5 or 6 servings.

On another note, things are going well here in Mesa. School has started, so we are pretty busy most nights. Dustin is having his tonsils and adnoids out tomorrow and his sister is suppose to have her baby, so it will be an eventful day. More to come on that.....