Recipe: Speedy Mushroom and Sausage Pasta

SPEEDY MUSHROOM AND SAUSAGE PASTA

8 ounces (about 3 cups) bow-tie pasta, uncooked
1 pound sweet Italian sausage links, cut in 1-inch pieces
vegetable oil
12 ounces (about 3-3/4 cups) fresh white mushrooms
1 cup coarsely chopped green bell pepper
1 cup chopped onion
2 cups prepared marinara sauce

Cook pasta according to package directions; drain. Meanwhile, in large skillet cook sausage until browned and cooked through, about 10 minutes. Remove; set aside. Drain off all but 1 tablespoon fat or add oil to make 1 tablespoon; heat until hot. Add mushrooms, green pepper and onion; cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, 5 to 7 minutes. Add reserved sausage and marinara sauce; cook until heated through, about 5 minutes. Ladle sauce over hot pasta; sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
YIELD: 4 Portions