So how does one get from making a quick Pasta Primavera to a Pasta Bar with all the Fixin’s in under 30 minutes? When initially faced with the  #SundaySupper challenge to create a quick, easy and flavorful dinner in under 30 minutes I settled on making Pasta Primavera, but as often happens in our house, no two people like the same thing. With that said, I quickly shifted gears and decided to do a Pasta Bar. Everyone could create their own meal in a matter of minutes. It was such a hit I think it’s going to be a regular in our dinner rotations!

Produce stand

I started at the local farmers market for a little inspiration. I decided on zucchini, yellow squash, sweet Vidalia onions, fresh spinach, Portabella mushrooms, red and yellow sweet cherry tomatoes, and broccoli. 

We have a house full of meat eaters so I added chicken cutlets (leftover from the night before) and Applegate Organics Sweet Italian (Chicken & Turkey Sausage). What’s great about the Applegate Sausage is that it comes already fully cooked!

For tonight’s pasta bar, I went with Ziti as our pasta of choice but any pasta will work. And if there’s someone in your house who doesn’t like pasta you can substitute red potatoes cubed.

Next up is a variety of cheese.  I had a choice of three, fresh mozzarella, parmesan, and herb goat cheese. Ricotta is also a favorite. sunday supper ingredients

The rest is easy.  Prepare the pasta al dente according to the package directions. Drain and set aside when cooked. While the pasta is cooking everyone can pick their pasta toppings.

As each person selects have them bring their ‘entree’ to the stove. I use a wok but a frying pan or saute pan will work just as well. Put a little olive oil in the pan add in the toppings. Stir until done. I season with sea salt, garlic, and fresh ground pepper. Add in the pasta and plate. Add the cheese of choice.

Quantities you ask? It depends on the size of your family. The great news about doing a pasta bar is you can save the leftovers in ziplock bags and get creative throughout the week.

It’s a fun way to please everyone, get everyone interacting and it’s over and done in a matter of minutes.

I serve a crusty Italian peasant bread. No sides needed it’s an all in one dinner.

Great fun for kids and a nifty way to get them interested in veggies is this ‘interactive’ plate I pasta for kidsbought at z gallerie.

Looking for some more delicious and fast weeknight dinners? Check out these great #SundaySupper recipes:

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