Policewoman Pepper(Anderson)onata

This week's post is dedicated to my faithful, funny, silent partner Mark - he's been my muse (and straight man) for the past 23 years, and you can't take that away from him...

Every star entree needs a great co-star as it's side dish, and Pepperonata is the perfect compliment to last week's post Smell-O-Vision Pan Roasted Chicken with Rosemary.  The recipe has the same source, the delightful Giovanni Cappi. Simple in it's ingredients and preparation, the taste  is most flavorful. In 30 minutes you have a great pasta sauce. I usually use a very good brand of Italian strained tomatoes, although Giovanni uses fresh tomatoes - she's old country slow and I am new world convenient. Side dish or as a main, you really can't go wrong. Tastes best with fresh, wide pasta noodles - it's a big heavy sauce and it needs a substantial vessel.

Everybody remembers Angie Dickinson as Pepper Anderson in the 1974-78 TV drama Policewoman. A groundbreaking series that promoted women's equality and strength in a man's world. Whether posing as a prostitute, nurse, teacher, or flight attendant, Pepper fought crime and stereotypes, inspiring young women everywhere to pursue glamorous careers in law enforcement. Although, she didn't do it alone. Nope, she had Earl Holliman by her side as Sgt Bill Crowley. Earl Holliman, Angie Dickinson's co-star, immortalized for his celebrity mediocrity in the Mystery Science Theater 3000 (MST3k to fans) most famous ode to Earl Holliman. Watch the clip and pay homage to Earl Holliman (you can't take this away from him...)

The Recipe:

4 mixed bell peppers (orange and yellow)

4 tblsp olive oil

1 garlic clove

4 tomatoes, peeled, seeded and chopped

basil, chopped (optional)

salt (many pinches, like a creepy old Aunt)

Note: You may use canned tomatoes and puree in a food processor or use a very good brand of Italian strained tomatoes like Pomi or Alessi Prima Passata

Halve the peppers, remove the seeds and membranes and cut into large pieces. Heat oil in stock pot with garlic. Add peppers and cook over low heat, stirring occasionally for 10 minutes. Add tomatoes, season with salt and cook for 20 minutes until thickened. Remove garlic and add chopped basil.  Serve over fresh pasta.