Straw and Hay Pasta (Pagliae Fieno)
This “Straw and Hay Pasta” or “Pagliae Fieno” is a delightful combination of green (spinach) and white pasta, swirled with a rich, savory sausage and mushroom sauce. The diverse range of herbs and spices, characteristic of M-K seasonings, adds depth and an intricate flavor profile. This dish is not only visually appealing with its contrasting pasta colors but also rich in flavor, making it a perfect main course for special occasions or a hearty weekend dinner. Pair it with a fresh green salad and some crusty bread for a complete, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 12 T. Butter or Margarine, divided
- 1 clove Garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 lb. Italian sausage (removed from casings and crumbled, or bulk)
- 4 1/2 tsp. Parsley, minced
- 1 tsp. M-K Ground Basil or 4 fresh basil leaves, minced
- 1 generous dash M-K Tarragon
- 1 dash M-K Ground Thyme
- 1 dash M-K Oregano Flakes
- 1 dash M-K Rubbed Sage
- 1 dash M-K Ground Nutmeg
- Salt and M-K Granulated Black Pepper, to taste
- 1 1/2 lb. Mushrooms, sliced
- 1 lb. Green Pasta (spinach pasta)
- 1 lb. White Pasta (regular pasta)
- 1 1/2 c. Heavy Cream
- 1/2 c. Parmesan, grated
Directions
- In a large deep skillet or Dutch oven, melt 10 T. of butter.
- Add garlic and cook until it turns golden brown.
- Incorporate the sausage, parsley, and the M-K seasonings. Cook for 20 minutes, making sure to stir frequently.
- Add in the sliced mushrooms and cook for another 15 minutes. Ensure the mixture remains hot.
- In a separate large kettle or pot, cook both green and white pasta as per their package directions. Once done, drain the pasta.
- In the same kettle or pot, melt the remaining 2 T. of butter. Add the cooked pasta and sauté lightly over low heat.
- Add half of the sausage-mushroom mixture to the pasta along with all the heavy cream. Toss the mixture well over medium heat until the cream thickens slightly (roughly 3 minutes).
- Transfer the pasta and sauce mixture to a serving platter. Top with the remaining sausage-mushroom mixture.
- Serve immediately, offering grated Parmesan as a topping.
