We've all had "keeper" dishes that everyone raves about. Then, invariably one of two things happens; either it's never heard from again because we move on to newer keepers and forget how good it was, or because of demand we make it over and over and even though it is always raved about, we, frankly get tired of it. Our gourmet herbs, spices and seasonings help you add variety without changing the underlying basics that make the dish a keeper in the first place. Here's how and why it works in a recipe for Whole Wheat Pasta Bake that calls for Italian Seasoning.

Most off-the-shelf Italian Seasonings have Marjoram and Savory spices, the Marjoram, a sweeter version of Oregano, the Savory a somewhat peppery taste. They normally also include Basil, Rosemary, Thyme, Oregano(spicier than Marjoram), and Sage. To kick up a notch what is already a great recipe we are going to suggest you alternate using 2 of our Italian Seasonings from our collection of gourmet herbs, spices and seasonings; Italian Olive Garlic and Italian Bread Dipping Blend. This will give you 3 variations on the Whole Wheat Pasta Bake keeper.

Here are the ingredients(from A Taste of Home recipe), substitutions and directions:

• 2 cups uncooked whole wheat spiral pasta
• 1/2 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed
• 3 tablespoons butter, divided
• 1 medium zucchini, chopped
• 1/4 cup chopped onion
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1-1/2 cups half-and-half cream
• 3/4 pound process cheese (Velveeta), cubed
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

       Topping:

• 1 cup dry whole wheat bread crumbs
• 3 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Directions:

1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, saute chicken in 1 tablespoon butter until no longer pink. Remove and keep warm.
2. In the same skillet, saute zucchini and onion in remaining butter. Stir in flour until blended; gradually add cream. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Reduce heat. Stir in cheese and Italian seasoning until cheese is melted; add chicken.
3. Drain pasta; add to cheese mixture. Transfer to a greased 8-in. square baking dish. In a small bowl, combine the bread crumbs, butter, Italian seasoning and salt; sprinkle over top. Bake, uncovered, at 350° for 10-15 minutes or until heated through and topping is golden brown.

Substitutions for 3 variations:

1. Substitute the Strawberry Tree Farms Italian Bread Dipping Blend Italian Seasoning in both places.
2. Substitute the Strawberry Tree Farms Italian Olive Garlic Seasoning in both places.
3. Substitute either one in the bake mix and the other in the topping.