EASY SAUSAGE AND SPINACH PASTA

Quick & Delicious One-Skillet Dinner

Key Info:

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 4-6

Difficulty: Easy

Dietary: Gluten-free adaptable

Equipment:

– Large skillet

– Pasta pot

– Colander

– Wooden spoon

Ingredients:

– 1 lb Italian sausage (pork/chicken)

– 8 oz penne pasta

– 4-6 oz fresh spinach

– 3 garlic cloves, minced

– 2 tbsp olive oil

– Salt and pepper

– Optional: Red pepper flakes

– Optional: Parmesan cheese

Method:

1. Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.
2. Brown sausage in skillet, breaking into bite-sized pieces. Cook until no pink remains (160°F)
3. Add minced garlic, sauté 1 minute until fragrant
4. Toss in spinach, stir until just wilted (2-3 minutes)
5. Combine pasta with sausage mixture. Add reserved pasta water if needed for creaminess
6. Season with salt, pepper, optional red pepper flakes
7. Top with Parmesan cheese if desired

Crucial Tips:

– Don’t overcook spinach

– Reserve pasta water for sauce consistency

– Use spicy sausage for extra kick

Variations:

– Gluten-free pasta

– Chicken sausage

– Add white beans for protein

– Swap spinach for kale

Storage:

– Refrigerate 3-4 days

– Reheat with splash of water

– Best consumed within 2 days

Pro Tips:

– Break sausage into small pieces for even cooking

– Use fresh spinach for best texture

– Grate Parmesan fresh for maximum flavor

Nutrition:

– High protein

– Good source of iron

– Vitamin-rich from spinach

Serving Suggestions:

– Side salad

– Crusty bread

– Glass of white wine

Enjoy your delicious, easy pasta dinner!