You've heard us say it before, but penne with shrimp is a killer Italian recipe.

Why do we call penne with shrimp a killer dish? Because we've made it for umpteen, "bring a simple dish" parties, luncheons and other get togethers. And on every occasion, any number of people ask us to send them the recipe.

We've been making this dish for more than ten years, easily. It is a breeze, and it is good. We sincerely hope you agree.

Without furthur preamble:

New Italian Recipes Presents:
Penne With Shrimp Or Kielbasa

Ingredients
3 cups broccoli florets
1/2 cup quality, extra virgin olive oil
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 medium sweet onion, finely diced
1-2 T dried oregano
1/4 cup red wine
2-3 cloves garlic, sliced
1/2 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 tin whole flat anchovies, chopped
1 lb. med or large shrimp or cooked kielbasa sausage (cubed into small pieces)
1 lb pasta shapes, such as penne, rigatoni or med. shells, cooked al dente
2 T quality, aged balsamic vinegar
2 to 3 T red wine vinegar
10-15 fresh basil leaves, minced
1-2 sprigs fresh rosemary, needles striped from stem
Freshly ground pepper

Preparation:
Cut broccoli into florets and blanch in boiling water for 4 or 5 minutes. Drain and plunge into ice water to stop the cooking. Transfer to large bowl, combining with pasta.

Heat 1/4 cup of the olive oil in large skillet over med. heat.

Add onions and saute until they release their juices, 5-6 minutes.

Add garlic, tomatoes, anchovies and balsamic vinegar and stir for 3 or 4 minutes.

Add shrimp, or sausage, and cook until pink (if shrimp).

Transfer to bowl and combine with broccoli and pasta.

Combine remaining oil, red wine vinegar, rosemary, basil, salt and pepper in a small bowl

Combine with pasta. Yields 6 to 8 servings.

Oil and vinegar amounts can be adjusted to taste. Salt and pepper to taste. (Should be fairly salty already from anchovies).

Penne with shrimp/kielbasa just might be one of the best, and one of the simplest, pastas you've ever tasted.

I would try a sangiovese or Borolo with this one. Join our favorite wine club, American Cellars and every month you will get to try some highly rated wines that are not easily found at your local store. (You have to live in a state where wine shipments to private citizens are allowed.) Thank goodness, Colorado is one!

Buon appetito always!
Brought to you with love from
Aunt Aletha and Dear Old Dave