Delicious meals can start with convenient packaged foods by adding some extra love. Try this Spinach Stuffed Rigatoni meal starting with frozen pasta in a bag.
Better than the box. Some imagination, a little time (and sometimes thyme), and a few extra easy ingredients is all it takes.
Have a taste for pasta? Try this recipe for a meal combination.
Fresh Herbs
One key to turning convenience foods into “gourmet” meals is fresh herbs. Try growing some in small pots on your windowsill. Basil, thyme, chives, oregano and mint are the essentials.
Spinach Stuffed Rigatoni with Grilled Chicken
The ingredients (See Pic #1).
- Frozen bag of spinach stuffed rigatoni (it usually comes with a flavor packet).
- 1 Red pepper.
- ¼ Yellow or white onion.
- 2 Tablespoons fresh oregano.
- 4 Tablespoons olive oil.
- Leftover meat (chicken, pork or beef) cut into bite-sized pieces.
Roast the red pepper over the flame on the gas stove. Be certain to char the outside well. Put it in a plastic sandwich bag for five minutes. Scrap off the charred skin and don't be concerned if some is left on. This step isn't necessary if using an electric oven. Slice pepper into strips.
Thinly slice the quarter onion.
Boil the frozen spinach stuffed rigatoni per the instructions on the package. Do not overcook.
While the pasta is boiling, saute the pepper and onion in the olive oil over medium heat. The onion should turn a little translucent, 4 minutes. Add leftover meat now so it can heat up.
Fresh Sauteed Asparagus
- 1 pound fresh asparagus (stalk ends broken off).
- Salt.
- Black pepper.
- 1Tablespoon olive oil.
- 2 Tablespoons butter or margarine.
Heat the oil and butter in a skillet. Put in asparagus, salt and pepper to taste. Saute over low heat, turning frequently.
Back to the Rigatoni
Drain the pasta. Pour the mixture of oil, peppers and onion over the pasta (be certain to scrape all that goodness from the pan).
Add the fresh oregano and the flavor packet that probably came with the rigatoni (that is why they call them convenience foods. Toss gently.
The finished product is Pic #2. Serve the pasta and asparagus in nice serving dishes for presentation.
Extras for a Tasty Table
- Side dish of grated Parmesan cheese.
- A loaf of crusty bread (buy it at the bakery).
Boxed and bagged convenience foods can be turned into “gourmet” style meals without straining a non-cooking brain. A nice bottle of wine is a fine addition to this meal.
This Better Than the Box recipe meal (Pic #3) is worthy of being served to family and guests.
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