Zesty Italian Sausage Pasta

This Zesty Italian Sausage Pasta combines the bold flavors of Johnsonville Italian sausage, broccoli, and a light tomato garlic sauce, all served with linguine pasta. A quick and satisfying meal, it brings together savory sausage, tender broccoli, and a rich tomato base, creating a delicious and irresistible dish.

Quick Benefits

This Zesty Italian Sausage Pasta is a quick and hearty meal ready in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights or when you want a flavorful dinner without spending too much time in the kitchen. It offers a balanced combination of protein from the sausage, fiber from the broccoli, and carbohydrates from the linguine, creating a well-rounded meal that’s sure to satisfy.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients in this Zesty Italian Sausage Pasta:

• 1 (19 ounce) package Johnsonville® Mild Italian Sausage Links: A flavorful sausage that forms the heart of the dish.
• 1 (16 ounce) package linguine: A classic pasta choice that holds the sauce and sausage beautifully.
• 3 tablespoons olive oil: Used to sauté the onions and garlic, adding richness and flavor.
• 1 small sweet onion, thinly sliced: Adds a savory sweetness to the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic: Enhances the dish with aromatic depth.
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced Italian tomatoes: Provides the base for the sauce with a tangy, tomato-rich flavor.
• 1 (10.5 ounce) can chicken broth: Adds moisture and richness to the sauce.
• 2 cups broccoli florets: Offers a healthy, crunchy contrast to the sausage and pasta.

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the sausage: Cook the Johnsonville Italian sausage according to the package directions. Once cooked, allow it to cool slightly, then slice into 1/4-inch pieces.
2. Cook the pasta: Prepare the linguine according to the package instructions. Once cooked, set it aside.
3. Sauté the vegetables: In a large saucepan, warm the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sauté the thinly sliced onion and minced garlic until the onion is tender and fragrant.
4. Make the sauce: Add the diced Italian tomatoes and chicken broth to the saucepan. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Cook the broccoli and pasta: Stir in the broccoli florets and cooked pasta. Continue to cook for about 5 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
6. Add the sausage: Add the sliced sausage to the pan and toss everything together to combine. Let it cook for a few minutes to warm the sausage through.

Health Benefits

This Zesty Italian Sausage Pasta is not only delicious but also provides a range of nutritional benefits:

• Protein: The sausage and pasta deliver a good amount of protein, which is essential for muscle building and overall body function.
• Fiber: The broccoli adds dietary fiber to help with digestion and support a healthy gut.
• Vitamins: Broccoli is packed with vitamin C, which is important for immune function and skin health.
• Iron: The sausage and broccoli provide iron, a key nutrient that helps with the production of red blood cells.

Serving Suggestions

• Garlic bread: Pair this dish with a side of garlic bread for a classic and satisfying Italian meal.
• Side salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette would provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the pasta.
• Grated Parmesan: Top your pasta with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor.

Creative Variations

• Spicy option: For those who like a little heat, try using spicy Italian sausage or adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Add more veggies: You can include other vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
• Gluten-free version: Use gluten-free pasta in place of regular linguine to make this dish suitable for those following a gluten-free diet.
• Swap the sausage: If you prefer a leaner option, you can substitute the Italian sausage with turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a lighter version.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
• Freezing: This dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Pro Tips

• Don’t overcook the pasta: Be sure to cook the linguine al dente to avoid mushy pasta once it’s combined with the sauce.
• Cook the sausage thoroughly: Make sure the sausage is fully cooked before slicing and adding it to the dish for the best texture and flavor.
• Adjust the seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or garlic as needed to suit your preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you like, such as penne, spaghetti, or farfalle, depending on your preference.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
This pasta is best served fresh, but you can prepare the sausage and sauce in advance and store them separately. When ready to eat, just cook the pasta and combine everything.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can replace the Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or skip it entirely for a vegetarian version. Add more veggies to make up for the lost protein.

Is this recipe spicy?
The recipe is not spicy, as it uses mild Italian sausage. However, you can add chili flakes or use spicy sausage if you prefer a bit of heat.

This Zesty Italian Sausage Pasta is a perfect go-to meal for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding the family or hosting friends, it’s sure to impress with its bold flavors and satisfying ingredients.

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