Looking for a delicious yet straightforward meal? This tomato spinach sausage pasta recipe is your answer. Combining savory sausage, fresh spinach, and juicy tomatoes with perfectly cooked pasta, this dish strikes a balance between simplicity and rich flavor. It’s not only easy to make but also packed with nutrients, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
To create this delightful pasta dish, you'll need the following main and additional ingredients:
Main Ingredients
- Pasta: Choose your favorite type, whether it's penne, fusilli, or spaghetti.
- Sausage: Opt for Italian sausage, either mild or spicy, depending on your preference.
- Spinach: Fresh spinach works best, but you can use frozen if necessary.
- Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes or diced tomatoes from a can.
Additional Ingredients
- Garlic: Adds a rich, aromatic flavor.
- Olive Oil: Essential for sautéing.
- Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings to enhance the taste.
- Red Pepper Flakes: For a touch of heat.
- Parmesan Cheese: Finely grated for topping.
Ingredient Amounts
Here’s a detailed list of the ingredients with specific quantities:
- 8 oz pasta
- 1 lb Italian sausage (casings removed)
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Preparation Steps
Follow these steps to prepare the tomato spinach sausage pasta:
1. Cooking the Pasta
Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Ensure it is al dente, meaning it should be firm to the bite. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of the pasta water.
2. Preparing the Sausage
While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Continue until it is browned and fully cooked through. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sautéing the Garlic and Tomatoes
In the same skillet, add olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften and release their juices.
4. Adding Spinach
Add the fresh spinach to the skillet with the tomatoes. Cook until the spinach wilts down, stirring occasionally. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
5. Combining All Ingredients
Return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Mix well with the spinach and tomatoes. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together. If the pasta looks dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.
6. Final Touches
Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
Nutritional Value
This tomato spinach sausage pasta is not only tasty but also nutritious. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional value:
- Calories: Approximately 600 per serving
- Proteins: 25g
- Fats: 30g
- Saturated fats: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 6g
- Vitamins and Minerals:
- Vitamin A from spinach
- Vitamin C from tomatoes
- Calcium from Parmesan cheese
- Iron from spinach and sausage
Conclusion
In conclusion, this tomato spinach sausage pasta is a perfect blend of flavors and nutrition. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy evenings, yet it’s elegant enough to serve to guests. The combination of savory sausage, fresh vegetables, and perfectly cooked pasta will make this a staple in your meal rotation. Give it a try and enjoy a hearty, homemade meal that’s sure to satisfy.