Tonight's Dinner: Mascarpone penne with sun-dried tomatoes recipe

Tonight's Dinner

Sun-dried tomatoes make a delicious sauce

Yes, it's true that fresh tomatoes make a wonderful marinara sauce. But have you ever tried sun-dried tomatoes? Turns out they make an awesome pasta sauce as well.

A few months ago, I had dinner at an Italian restaurant that was out of this world. They made a farfalle that was covered in a delicious mascarpone cheese and sun-dried tomato sauce. I couldn't believe I was such a fan because I hate sun-dried tomatoes. I'm not sure why I don't like them, maybe it's the taste, maybe it's the texture. Whatever the reason, I rarely order anything that has sun-dried tomatoes in it. So, why did I try this pasta dish? Because several people had recommended it. I was so thrilled with my order, I decided to try and make the same dish at home. I couldn't believe how easy it was. But the best thing about the dish, it was just as tasty as the restaurant version.

Mascarpone penne with sun-dried tomatoes

Serves 4

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 12 ounces penne
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 2 tablespoons whole milk
• 1 (8 ounce) container mascarpone cheese
• 1 cup Italian cheese mixture, shredded
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes
• 1 cup peas

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Sprinkle the chicken with salt and pepper and cook in a baking dish for 20 minutes. Cut the chicken breasts into one-half-inch cubes and set aside.
2. Cook the penne according to the package directions, drain and set aside.
3. Melt the butter over medium-high heat in a large saucepan. Whisk in the flour and milk until combined. Add the mascarpone and Italian cheeses and stir until melted and thick. Stir in the tomatoes, peas and chicken.
4. Pour the cheese sauce over the penne and toss until coated. Serve immediately.

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