When pressed for time, and you’re in need of a quick meal, this one has all the main attractions: protein, carb, and veggie.

Ingredients:

• 2 packages kielbasa or smoked sausage, sliced
• 2 15oz cans green beans, water drained
• 1 14.5oz package of penne pasta
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp. butter
• 1 1/2 tsp. salt
• 2 tsp. garlic powder
• 1-2 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes, per taste
• 15 cranks of a black pepper grinder
• 1/4 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Preparation:

In a large pot, bring water to boil and cook pasta according to package instructions. While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet to medium-high heat, add the sliced kielbasa and stir occasionally to heat and brown the sausage. Once the pasta is done cooking, reduce the heat to low, drain the water and return the pasta to the pot and add the olive oil and butter, stirring until well coated. Stir in the salt, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, black pepper, and sprinkle in the parmesan cheese.

Once the sausage is browned and heated, transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to soak up any grease. Using another paper towel, dab the tops of the sausage slices as well and once done, transfer the sausage slices into the pot with the pasta; stir. Drain the water from the green beans, and put green beans in a microwave safe bowl and heat for 1 1/2 minutes. Once heated, add to the pot with the pasta and sausage; stir and serve.