My hubs used to be the SWAT commander for our local police department & somehow this pasta became known as “SWAT RAGS. One of his officers taught me how to make this when the hubs and I first started dating. He was friends with a local restauranteur and this was a secret dish he made for his friends. I used to make huge pans of this stuff in my tiny apartment kitchen for SWAT team get togethers & special events. When we got married in a friend’s backyard, you better believe this dish was served. Later, we started adding grilled chicken and that was a hit, too. This dish has been a staple at the many large parties we have thrown over the years. A party is not a party without SWAT Rags. Awwww…the memories!
Showing all posts in Pasta
Creole Pasta w/Andouille Sausage
This is an incredibly easy dish to put together and it’s so flavorful. The creole seasoning really elevates this pasta. It’s just a great diversion from the typical Italian pasta dish. You’ll love this New Orleans inspired meal!
Irish Goulash
Happy St. Paddy’s Day! This simple & comforting pasta goulash is perfect for a little Irish celebration. Just add an Irish kiss for the cook!
Chicken (or Turkey) Spaghetti Casserole
This is a one of our go-to leftover Thanksgiving turkey recipes. It travels really well, so it’s something I make to deliver to our kids. Simple to prepare and it feeds a crowd. Whether you use turkey or chicken, it’s a super satisfying and cozy meal.
Summer Pasta w/Roasted Tomato Pesto, Corn, Zucchini & Feta
I made this for a family gathering and everyone went crazy over this dish. It’s great as a side dish or as the main meal. It has a few steps, but it is well worth it. The best part is that I used cherry tomatoes from my garden! This is gonna be a permanent fixture on our table. The original recipe is from Half Baked Harvest and was made with gnocchi. In addition to using pasta, I made a few other tweaks for my taste. The link to the original recipe is on the recipe.
XL Meatballs & Pasta in Hearty Red Sauce
I was inspired to make this dish after seeing something similar posted by a fellow foodie. These meatballs are tender and filling. One will do; maybe even just half. My hubs loved this dish and the hearty red sauce is what makes it. I hope you try it!
Creamy Saffron Linguine & Prawns
If you’re looking for a fancilious holiday dinner idea, I highly recommend this easy meal. I promise you can do it! The hardest thing is peeling & deveining the shrimp. I sautéed the shrimp with a homemade tomato sauce, but you could certainly use store bought. To make it extra special I topped it with lightly browned Italian chickpea crumbs and lemon zest. Amazing flavors and so festive!
Lemon Spaghetti w/Parmesan & Basil
Fresh, easy and delicious! This pasta is great in its own or as a side dish. I serve this with salmon or other fish, and it is a wonderful compliment. It was also an awesome opportunity for me to use basil from my herb garden. Another hint: Keep a small block of Parmesan in your freezer & you’ll always have it in hand, when needed. Enjoy!
Rotini Pasta w/Boursin Cheese, Peas & Mushrooms
This yummy meal has all the required elements – grilled beef, a creamy avocado and this awesome chickpea pasta. The rich meat was perfect with this light, yet flavorful pasta! I’m gonna squeeze every last minute out of this summer & this al fresco meal hit the mark!
Creamy Chickpea Pasta Bake
This super easy pasta dish is made from chickpea penne pasta, a jar of your favorite marinara, lean ground beef and plenty of cheese! This is one of my family’s most requested meals. My granddaughter has asked for it for two years straight for her first day of school dinner. Enjoy!