Welcome to a culinary journey where simplicity meets deliciousness! Today, we’re diving into a recipe that’s not only easy to whip up on a busy weeknight but also packs a punch of flavor and nutrition. Introducing Orecchiette with Sausage and Spinach, a dish that’s as fun to eat as it is to say. With a harmonious blend of tender pasta, savory sausage, and fresh greens, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.
Ingredients: A Closer Look
Before we get to the magic of cooking, let’s gather our ingredients. This recipe serves 4, making it perfect for a family dinner or for impressing a small group of friends.
- 8 ounces uncooked orecchiette pasta: Orecchiette, meaning “little ears” in Italian, is the perfect pasta shape to cradle our rich sauce.
- 16 ounces Italian sausage: Choose your favorite—mild, sweet, or spicy—to tailor the dish to your taste buds. (Note: You can use sausage links; just remove the casing before cooking.)
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: For that aromatic kick.
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard: A secret ingredient for an extra layer of flavor.
- 1/2 cup dry white wine: This will deglaze the pan and add a lovely depth to the sauce.
- 3 cups (packed) fresh baby spinach: For a pop of color and a boost of nutrition.
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil (optional): If you have it on hand, basil adds a fresh, herby brightness.
- Salt & pepper to taste
- For serving: freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional, to taste)
Directions: Step-By-Step Guide
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s put them to good use. The entire cooking process is about 30 minutes, so you’ll have a gourmet meal ready in no time.
- Start the Pasta: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook the orecchiette pasta al dente according to the package directions. This usually takes about 10-12 minutes.
- Cook the Sausage: While the pasta is bubbling away, heat a skillet over medium-high. Add the sausage meat and chopped onion, cooking for 8-10 minutes until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat, leaving about 1-2 tablespoons in the skillet for flavor.
- Flavor Building: Reduce the heat to medium, add the minced garlic and Dijon mustard, and cook for about 30 seconds, just until the garlic is fragrant. Then, pour in the white wine, letting it reduce by half. This deglazing process lifts all the tasty bits off the bottom of the pan.
- Greens and Pasta: Add the fresh spinach and optional basil to the skillet. Toss everything together until the spinach has just wilted. Now, incorporate the drained pasta into the skillet, mixing well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce and ingredients.
- Finishing Touches: Season with salt and pepper to your liking. If you’re a cheese lover, serving this dish with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese elevates it to new heights.
Nutritional Snapshot
Per serving, this dish offers about 643 kcal, making it a satisfying meal that won’t weigh you down. Plus, you’re getting a good dose of greens and protein.
Conclusion
There you have it—a simple yet utterly delicious Orecchiette with Sausage and Spinach. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just treat yourself to a scrumptious meal, this recipe has got you covered. It’s proof that with a few quality ingredients and a little time, you can create a dish that’s both nourishing and indulgent. Enjoy your culinary creation, and here’s to many more delightful dinners!
Orecchiette with Sausage and Spinach
Ingredients:
8 ounces uncooked orecchiette pasta
16 ounces Italian sausage (see note)
1/2 medium onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 cup dry white wine
3 cups (packed) fresh baby spinach
2 tablespoons fresh basil (optional)
Salt & pepper to taste
For serving: freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional, to taste)
Directions:
Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta al dente according to package directions.
Meanwhile, in a skillet, sauté sausage meat and onion over medium-high heat for 8-10 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove excess fat, leaving about 1-2 tablespoons in the skillet.
Reduce heat to medium, add garlic and Dijon mustard, and cook for about 30 seconds.
Pour in the wine, cooking until reduced by half, about 1-2 minutes.
Add spinach and basil, if using. Toss until the spinach has wilted, then incorporate the drained pasta.
Season with salt and pepper. Serve with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Kcal: 643 kcal | Servings: 4