Makay'S Husband'S Beef And Zucchini Delight

• 1 (12 oz.) can tomato paste
• 1 (12 oz.) can stewed tomatoes with green chilies
• 2 tsp. whole oregano leaves
• 1 tsp. crushed basil leaves
• 1/2 tsp. chili powder
• 1/4 tsp. red pepper
• 1 c. water
• 1/2 c. sliced mushrooms (fresh or canned), drained
• 4 medium zucchini, sliced 1/2 inch across
• 1 lb. lean stew meat, cut in bite-size pieces (room temperature)*
• 1/2 c. Ricotta cheese
• 1/4 c. Parmesan cheese

1. Combine first 7 ingredients and simmer 45 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms and simmer an additional 15 minutes.
3. Remove from heat, add stew beef and let stand until one hour before serving time.
4. In a separate container cook zucchini until done but firm.
5. Shortly before serving, add both kinds of cheese to sauce and meat, mix thoroughly and heat to desired serving temperature.
6. Arrange your favorite shape pasta which you have found the time to cook at some point along the way on a serving platter.
7. Add zucchini slices and top with the sauce/beef mixture.
8. Crushed fresh parsley and finely chopped ripe olives may be sprinkled over the top.
9. Yield is 4 generous servings.

tomato paste, tomatoes, oregano, basil, chili powder, red pepper, water, mushrooms, zucchini, lean stew meat, ricotta cheese, parmesan cheese

Taken from www.cookbooks.com/Recipe-Details.aspx?id=674236 (may not work)