Summer Squash, Sausage Penne with Ricotta Tomato Sauce

I am part of a recipe loop – basically we share recipes via a Yahoo! Group. Many of us have CSA’s. The loop is a great way to share recipes for what we are getting a lot of, how to get our kids to eat the vegetables, and share tips and info. We shared this recipe with my aunt and uncle when they came over for lunch. They took my printed copy of the recipe home with them, I think they liked it.

Sunday Lunch Menu – Summer Squash, Sausage Penne with Ricotta Tomato Sauce, Salad, Garlic Basil Bread
Farm Share Produce – Summer Squash, Zucchini, Basil
Other Local Produce – Garlic, Salad Fixings

Summer Squash, Sausage Penne with Ricotta Tomato Sauce
Adapted from Food and Wine

2 T olive oil
4-5 links of chicken sausage, cut into half moons
1 ½ lbs. Summer Squash and Zucchini grated, about 4
3 cloves garlic, minced
Salt, to taste
½ cup ricotta
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (if oil packed, drain first)
½ t crushed red pepper
¾ pound penne
¼ cup Parmesan

In a large frying pan, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook until lightly browned. Add the summer squash, zucchini, garlic, basil, and salt. Cook 5-10 minutes. Add the ricotta, sun-dried tomatoes, and crushed red pepper. Warm through.

Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package directions. Reserve 1 cup pasta water. Drain pasta and toss with sauce. Add any needed pasta water to make the pasta dish moister. Top with Parmesan cheese.