My dad’s fraternal organization, Norfolk Odd Fellows, has a monthly family night potluck. While visiting recently, I got to go. Guess what I took…

Potluck Pasta

1 box veggie rotini pasta

1c vegetable broth

1 tomato, cut in 4-6 wedges

1/2 white onion, cut in 4-6 wedges

3 garlic cloves

1t oregano

1 polka kielbasa sausage, cut into 1/2” pieces

1 red pepper, diced

1 16oz bag frozen california mix

1/2c parmesan, divided (optional)

Make pasta according to package directions. I add a drop of oil (any kind) to the water so the pasta does not stick together. Before adding the pasta to the water be sure to add 1t of salt to the water. When cooked, drain the pasta then rinse with cold water to stop them from cooking more. Set aside.

Meanwhile, using a blender, make a slurry with the broth, tomato, onion, garlic and oregano. I leave mine a little chunky but you can blend this until it is smooth if you prefer.

In a large pan on medium high heat, brown sausages with 2T of the slurry for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally. Add the red pepper and cook 3 minutes more.

Add the rest of the slurry then the frozen vegetables, then top with cooked pasta, do not mix. Lower your heat to medium low and cook, with a lid on, for 4-6 minutes.

Stir combining all well and mix in 1/2 of the parmessan, if using. Pour into the serving bowl and sprinkle remaining parmessan on top.

Can be served hot or cold.