Looking for a quick and tasty meal? My Savory Sweet Pepper Sausage Pasta fits the bill! This dish combines the bold flavors of sausage with fresh sweet peppers for a delightful dinner. You’ll find it easy to whip up, with just a few simple steps and ingredients. Ready to create a delicious pasta dish that impresses? Let’s dive into the recipe and make your next meal a hit!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Healthier Option: This recipe uses whole wheat pasta and chicken sausage, making it a delicious yet nutritious meal choice.
- Vibrant Flavors: The combination of colorful bell peppers and savory sausage creates a dish that’s bursting with flavor.
- Quick and Easy: With a total prep and cook time of just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: You can easily tweak the ingredients, adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice level to suit your taste.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients List
– 8 oz (225 g) whole wheat penne pasta
– 1 lb (450 g) Italian chicken sausage, casings removed
– 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
– 1 orange bell pepper, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
– 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Optional Ingredients
– Chili flakes for heat
– Extra olive oil for drizzling
– Grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor
Recommended Sides or Pairings
– A simple green salad works well.
– Garlic bread is a tasty option.
– Pair with a light white wine for a nice touch.
– A side of steamed vegetables adds color and nutrients.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add 8 oz of whole wheat penne pasta. Cook until it is al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.
Preparing the Sausage
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 lb of Italian chicken sausage, breaking it into smaller pieces. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Transfer the sausage to a plate and set it aside.
Sautéing the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Heat it over medium heat. Add 1 thinly sliced red bell pepper, 1 yellow bell pepper, and 1 orange bell pepper. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until they soften. Then, stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Combining All Ingredients
Return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Pour in 1 can of diced tomatoes with juices and 1/2 cup of low-sodium chicken broth. Add 1 teaspoon of dried oregano and chili flakes if you want some heat. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let this mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes to blend the flavors.
Final Mixing and Serving
Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together gently to coat the pasta with the sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat through. Serve warm, topping each plate with fresh basil leaves and optional grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your meal!
Tips & Tricks
How to Cook Pasta Perfectly
To cook pasta just right, start with a big pot of salted water. Bring it to a boil first. Add the whole wheat penne and cook it until al dente, which means it should still be firm. This usually takes about 10-12 minutes. Once done, drain it in a colander, but don’t rinse. Rinsing removes the starch that helps sauce stick.
Enhancing Flavors with Spices
Spices can really boost the taste of your dish. I use dried oregano for a nice herbal note. If you want some heat, add chili flakes. Just a teaspoon can make a difference. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper. Taste as you go. This way, you can adjust to suit your liking.
Presentation Tips for Serving
For a pretty plate, use shallow bowls when serving. This lets the colorful peppers shine. Arrange them on top for a pop of color. A drizzle of olive oil adds extra richness and looks nice too. For a final touch, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top. Fresh basil leaves bring a lovely aroma and taste, making your dish even more inviting.
Pro Tips
- Enhance Flavor with Fresh Herbs: Consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or parsley along with the basil for an aromatic boost.
- Perfect Pasta Cooking: To ensure the pasta is perfectly cooked, taste it a minute or two before the package time is up.
- Make it Creamy: For a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese just before serving.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This dish holds up well in the fridge, making it a great option for meal prep—just reheat before serving!
Variations
Alternative Sausage Options
You can swap out the Italian chicken sausage for other kinds. Try turkey sausage for a leaner option. Pork sausage adds rich flavor. Or, use spicy sausage for a kick. Each choice will change the taste, making it unique.
Vegetarian Adaptations
If you want a meatless meal, replace the sausage with plant-based options. Use lentils or chickpeas for protein. You can also add more bell peppers or mushrooms for texture. Tofu is another great choice. It absorbs flavors well and adds heartiness.
Different Types of Pasta
Feel free to switch the whole wheat penne pasta with other types. Fusilli or rotini works nicely, too. If you prefer gluten-free, use brown rice or quinoa pasta. Each pasta type will hold the sauce differently, giving you varied bites.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To store leftovers, let the pasta cool down. Transfer it to an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to cover the container tightly to keep moisture in.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze this pasta dish too. Place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container. Leave some space at the top for the sauce to expand. It can stay in the freezer for up to two months. When ready to eat, move it to the fridge overnight to thaw.
Reheating Tips
To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist. Stir often until it is hot. You can also microwave it. Use a microwave-safe bowl and cover it loosely. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until warmed through. Enjoy your pasta just as delicious as before!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta you like. Options include spaghetti, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta. Just adjust the cooking time as needed. Whole wheat pasta adds more fiber, while regular pasta is softer.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat, use chili flakes in the recipe. You can also add sliced jalapeños or hot sausage instead of chicken sausage. Taste as you go, so it doesn’t get too spicy for you.
What are some suitable substitutes for chicken sausage?
You can replace chicken sausage with turkey sausage or pork sausage. If you prefer a meatless option, try using lentils or mushrooms. Both will add flavor and texture to the dish.
How long does Sweet Pepper Sausage Pasta last in the fridge?
This pasta dish lasts about 3 to 5 days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
In this post, we explored the key ingredients, cooking steps, and helpful tips for making Sweet Pepper Sausage Pasta. We also discussed variations to suit your taste and how to store leftovers properly. Remember, cooking is fun! Mix and match to find your perfect dish. Using fresh ingredients and spices can boost flavor. Enjoy making this tasty meal, and don’t be afraid to experiment. Happy cookin
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