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We have been busy with the kid's 4-H project - PIGS! One thing we love to do this time of the year, is to spend some time with the pigs in the pen. The pigs are getting used to being in the new barn, and we are spoiling the pigs with some treats. I am sure you are thinking, pigs will eat anything! They especially love pudding, jelly beans, marshmallows and marshmallow creme!
We are still dealing with cooler than normal temperatures in April, and we are keeping the pigs warm with heat lamps and a small heater in the barn. It's time for the farmers to start field work, but because of the cooler temperatures, snow, and rain we have received the first part of April, ground temperatures are still too cold to start planting. Soil temperatures are reported in the mid-30s and we need more warm days to increase soil temps. Soil temperatures need to be around 50 degrees for corn to germinate and soybeans need a soil temperature of 54 degrees. If seeds lay dormant in the ground, and do not germinate, they are more susceptible to diseases and insects.
Pasta is one of my favorite dishes. I can claim my kids on this decision. We have pasta dishes weekly! We normally go for the kids favorites, spaghetti, or pasta, but this is a grown-up version. It's packed with so much flavor!
TUSCAN CHICKEN SPAGHETTI
PRINT RECIPEINGREDIENTS FOR TUSCAN CHICKEN SPAGHETTI
3 chicken breasts - sliced in half, cut in thin strips
1 lb. bacon - cooked until crisp
2 cloves garlic - chopped
2 tsp olive oil
1 cup heavy cream
1 can fire roasted diced tomatoes
1 small onion - chopped
1 lb angel hair spaghetti
1 large bag spinach
2 cups chicken broth
3 cups water
1 cup chardonnay
Salt and pepper
Parmesan cheese, grated
½ cup basil leaves
HOW TO MAKE TUSCAN CHICKEN SPAGHETTI
Fry bacon, until brown. Place on plate, covered with a paper towel.
In a large pot, place spaghetti, chicken, garlic, tomatoes, onion, salt and pepper, and half the bag of spinach.
Add chicken broth, water and chardonnay.
Bring to a boil, and stir well. Keep chicken and spaghetti separated. Boil for 7-8 minutes.
Turn down heat. Add heavy cream, 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and simmer for 1-2 minutes. Turn off heat. Add remaining spinach and basil. Stir until spinach is wilted. Top with cheese, bacon and more basil.
NOTES ON TUSCAN CHICKEN SPAGHETTI
This is an easy recipe to make in one pan, if you prefer, you can cook the chicken separately, or ahead of time. Add the chicken at the end to combine with all other ingredients.
