Pasta Sauce...Amped up!

Pasta is an easy, inexpensive, go-to dish (especially in our house) for any day of the week. But is anyone else tired of the same 'ol sauce?  We use tomato-based sauces, as well as olive oil to coat our spaghetti, penne, and rotini.  But that just gets boring.  I wanted to try something that tasted more homemade with the added bonus of being healthier.  This sauce is it.

Five ingredients and 30 minutes is all you need to create a hearty, amped up sauce.  I love how the garlic adds a homemade element, while the mushrooms add a "beefy" texture.  The beans are a great protein addition and they thicken up the sauce. The greens brighten the dish and provide a nutritious bonus.  

I love topping spaghetti squash with this sauce. I've also made a slightly thicker version on top of my homemade (and leftover take-out) pizza!    

Inspired by this recipe:

(Amped Up) Pasta Sauce

1 Tbsp olive oil
3-4 garlic cloves, minced
1- 8 oz. package of mushrooms, chopped
2 large handfuls or 5 oz. package of greens, chopped
1 cup cannellini beans
1 jar pasta sauce
Salt & pepper to taste (optional)

Add oil to large skillet or pan and warm at medium heat.  

Add minced garlic and allow to soften, approximately 3-5 minutes.

Add mushrooms plus 2-4 tablespoons of water and saute until soft, approximately 5-7 minutes.

Add greens and saute until wilted, approximately 5 minutes.

Add 1 cup cannellini beans and jar of sauce.  Bring to a boil then reduce to a simmer.  Cover for 20 minutes till sauce is combined and reduced.  

Note: This sauce is on the thicker side.  If you prefer a thinner sauce, add water gradually while simmering.  

Finish with salt & paper to taste (optional).

Yield:  Approximately 4-6 servings


I've made this sauce using what I have on hand.  We've enjoyed the taste of baby bella mushrooms and white button; spinach and kale.  I've also used different jarred sauces such as tomato basil, marinara, and garden vegetable.  

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