If you're on the hunt for a quick, delicious, and nutritious meal that will impress your family and friends, look no further than this vibrant "Pasta with Turkey Sausage and Spinach"! In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a delightful Italian dish that combines the savory flavors of turkey sausage with the freshness of spinach and cherry tomatoes. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe is not only easy to make but also packed with wholesome ingredients. Ready to tantalize your taste buds? Let’s dive into the details of this mouthwatering dish!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta
- 1 pound turkey sausage, casings removed
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 8 ounces of pasta, 1 pound of turkey sausage (casings removed), 2 cups of fresh spinach, 1/2 cup of cherry tomatoes (halved), 2 cloves of garlic (minced), 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and allow it to heat up for about 1 minute.
- Add the turkey sausage to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Sauté the sausage for about 5-7 minutes, or until it is browned and cooked through.
- Once the sausage is cooked, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
- Next, add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Stir them in and cook for about 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.
- After the tomatoes have softened, add the fresh spinach to the skillet. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spinach is wilted.
- Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta in a colander.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sausage and vegetable mixture. Toss everything together, adding a bit of the reserved pasta water to help combine the ingredients and create a light sauce.
- Season the pasta with salt and pepper to taste. Toss again to ensure everything is well mixed and heated through.
- Remove the skillet from heat and serve the pasta immediately. Optionally, you can garnish with grated Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: Opt for whole grain or gluten-free pasta for a healthier twist. This will not only enhance the nutritional value but also add a unique flavor to your dish.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Aim for al dente pasta to ensure the perfect texture. Remember, it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the hot sausage and vegetables.
- Add Depth of Flavor: Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic for an extra kick. It complements the sausage beautifully!
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and ripe cherry tomatoes make a significant difference in taste. If you have access to farmer's markets, that's the best place to find them!
- Experiment with Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can elevate your dish. Sprinkle some on top just before serving for a burst of freshness.
- Make It a Meal: To turn this dish into a complete meal, serve it with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce!
- Leftover Magic: This dish reheats well, so make extra for lunch the next day. Just add a splash of olive oil or a bit of the reserved pasta water when reheating to keep it moist.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 60mg
