Sicilian Sausage and Pasta Toss

Sweet Italian sausage pieces are combined with canned white beans, tomatoes, pinenuts, capers and mint, simmered, and served over pasta.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound mild Italian Sausage links, cut into bite-size pieces
• 1 Tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 large clove garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 ounces) white beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 green onion, minced
• 2 Tbsp sliced pitted black olives
• 2 Tbsp toasted pine nuts
• 1 Tbsp capers
• 1 Tbsp chopped Italian parsley
• 1 Tbsp snipped mint
• 1 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1/2 tsp grated lemon zest
• 12 ounces corkscrew pasta
• Garnish - grated parmesan cheese

Directions:

Brown the sausage pieces in the oil over low heat in a large skillet. Stir in the tomatoes, garlic and beans. Simmer 15 minutes, and then add the rest of the ingredients except pasta and cheese. Heat through. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain well. Place in a serving dish and spoon the sauce over top. Garnish with the cheese.

Number of Servings: 4

Notes from the Cook: Serve this quick Italian style dish with crusty bread and a green salad for a delicious family supper.