Sausage Pasta
Indulge in a comforting bowl of sausage pasta, where spicy sausage meets perfectly cooked pasta. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor, making it a perfect weeknight dinner. With simple ingredients and easy steps, your family will love this satisfying meal that warms the heart and pleases the palate.
Ingredients
– 200g spaghetti
– 200g sausage (Italian or your choice)
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 400g canned tomatoes
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 2. Preparation time is 10 minutes, and cooking time is 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/2 of the recipe) contains approximately 450 calories, 20g protein, 15g fat, 60g carbohydrates, and 5g fiber. This is based on a standard serving size for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Slice the sausage and add it to the skillet, cooking until browned.
- Add sliced bell pepper and cook until softened.
- Pour in the canned tomatoes and season with salt and pepper.
- Simmer for about 5-7 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet, tossing to combine.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily customize this dish by substituting the sausage with chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter version. Additionally, feel free to use whole grain pasta or gluten-free pasta to suit dietary preferences.
Serving and Pairings
This sausage pasta pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. A side of garlic bread or a light red wine enhances the meal even further.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave until warmed through or heat gently on the stove. This dish can be frozen, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta: Keep an eye on the cooking time to prevent mushiness.
- Not seasoning the water: Salting the pasta water enhances flavor.
- Skipping the garlic: Garlic adds essential flavor, so don’t omit it!
- Using low-quality sausage: Good-quality sausage makes all the difference.
- Rushing the simmer: Allow the sauce to simmer for the best flavor.
Helpful Tips
- For extra spice, add red pepper flakes to the sausage while cooking.
- Experiment with different vegetables like zucchini or spinach.
- Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
- Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan for added richness.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes! Sausage pasta makes a great meal prep option. Just store in individual containers for easy reheating throughout the week.
Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli for additional nutrients and flavor.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage or use beans for protein while keeping the rest of the ingredients the same.
What type of sausage works best?
Italian sausage is a classic choice for this dish, but you can also use chicken or spicy sausage for a different flavor profile.
Conclusion
Sausage pasta is a delightful dish that combines simplicity with robust flavors, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With easy-to-follow steps and versatile ingredients, it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Sausage Pasta
Ingredients
- 200 g spaghetti
- 200 g sausage Italian or your choice
- 1 bell pepper sliced
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 400 g canned tomatoes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Slice the sausage and add it to the skillet, cooking until browned.
- Add sliced bell pepper and cook until softened.
- Pour in the canned tomatoes and season with salt and pepper.
- Simmer for about 5-7 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet, tossing to combine.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
