Speedy Bow Tie Pasta Dinner

Make weeknight dinner fast and easy. Here's a main course recipe and three suggestions for rounding it out into a complete meal. Find out how to effortlessly dress up starters, sides, and desserts to fit the meal's main course.

By Fraya Berg

The Menu

Bow Ties with Sausage and Sweet Peppers (see recipe below)
Chickpeas with Olives and Arugula
Caponata
Instant Lemon Meringue Tart

You won't believe how tasty just six ingredients can be until you try Bow Ties with Sausage and Sweet Peppers. Chickpeas with Olives and Arugula, Caponata, and Instant Lemon Meringue Tart are three more dishes that are easy to make with pantry staples like canned chickpeas, caponata, and a package of meringue kisses.

Bow Ties with Sausage and Sweet Peppers

Bow Ties with Sausage and Sweet Peppers recipe >>

Chickpeas with Olives and Arugula

Rinse and drain a can of chickpeas. Toss with arugula, pitted olives (Kalamatas are good for this dish), and any oil and vinegar dressing.

Caponata

Look for canned caponata in the gourmet section of the grocery store. Stir in a bit of chopped parsley to freshen it up, and serve on Melba toasts or crusty bread.

Instant Lemon Meringue Tart

Fill premade mini graham cracker crusts with instant lemon pudding. Top with meringue kisses.