Quick and Easy

In college I lived above a convenience store called the "Quick and Easy" - we lovingly called it the Quick and Sleezy or just "The Sleeze."  At midnight the day of my 21st birthday, I bought my first Sudwurk 40 ouncer at the Sleeze.  Ah, the college memories are flowing these days!

My mom sent this recipe to my sister and I, and it is a keeper!  It is so easy, and you'll impress anyone you serve it to (even yourself :)  My mom's comments are as follows: "Its easy, cheap & tastes great."  If that isn't an endorsement, I don't know what is.

Penne with Tomatoes and Arugula

Ingredients

2-3 Tbs. olive oil

1 large onion

4 cloves garlic (if you haven't tried the Trader Joe's frozen garlic cubes - you must!  SO EASY)

3 cups diced canned tomatoes w/ juices

1 tsp. each: oregano and thyme

1/2 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. each: red pepper flakes*, sugar, & black pepper

12 oz penne pasta

6 oz arugula

3/4 cup grated Romano or Parmesan

* I add more red pepper b/c I like it spicy!

Directions

Heat oil in a sauce pan over medium heat.  Add onions.  Cook until tender, about 5 minutes.  Add garlic and saute 1 minute.  Add tomatoes, herbs, & sugar.  Reduce heat & simmer for 45 minutes or until thickened.  (Sauce can be made a day ahead.  Cover & refrigerate.  Bring to a simmer before using.)

Cook pasta according to package directions. Place arugula in a colander.  When past is al dente, pour water over arugula to wilt.  Place drained pasta & arugula in bowl then pour in tomatoes.  Toss w/ cheese.

Enjoy!