Pasta with Broccoli and Chicken Sausage
Try this Pasta with Broccoli and Chicken Sausage recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Pasta with Broccoli and Chicken Sausage recipe, or contribute your own.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion diced
- 2 cloves of garlic minced
- freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- 1 small head of broccoli cut into florets, approx. 4 cups
- 1 9 oz package of fresh pasta (i used rp's gluten free fu or 8oz of dried pasta
- 1 package of precooked sweet italian chicken sausage sliced into rounds (4 sausages per package)
- 1/4 cup of grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup of fresh parsley chopped
- himalayan pink salt (or sea salt) to taste
- Carbohydrate 3.0644 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 0.878750000361835 g
- Fiber 0.49900001168251 g
- Protein 0.3979 g
- Saturated Fat 0.129390000049962 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (30g)
- Sodium 1.37187500000724 mg
- Sugar 2.56539998831749 g
- Trans Fat 0.0328137500097986 g
- Calories 21 calories
Step-by-step
- Chop the broccoli into florets and steam for 3-5 minutes until vibrant green but not mushy. Remove from the pot and set aside.
- Fill the same pot of water and bring to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Meanwhile dice the onion, mince the garlic, and slice the chicken sausage into small rounds.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over a medium heat.
- Add the onion and cook for 5 minutes until translucent.
- Add the chicken sausage and cook for 6 minutes, stirring halfway through to flit the sausage so it browns on each side.
- Add the garlic and the steamed broccoli to the pan. Cook for 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant.
- Add the cooked pasta.
- Top with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh chopped parsley.
- Season with salt and pepper according to your taste.
A Weeknight Wonder: Simple Pasta with Broccoli and Chicken Sausage
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a healthy and delicious meal can feel like a Herculean task. Many nights, the siren song of takeout is almost overwhelming. But I've discovered the secret to beating the dinnertime rush: simple, flavorful recipes that come together quickly and require minimal cleanup. This pasta with broccoli and chicken sausage recipe is my go-to, a weeknight lifesaver that's satisfying, nutritious, and surprisingly elegant.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. It's all about fresh, high-quality ingredients working in harmony. The slight sweetness of the chicken sausage perfectly complements the earthy broccoli and the slightly al dente pasta. I prefer using fresh pasta when I can find it – the texture is unmatched – but dried pasta works perfectly well too. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly. The entire process, from prep to plate, takes less than 30 minutes, making it ideal for those busy weeknights when you need dinner on the table fast. And the best part? The cleanup is a breeze. One pot for the pasta, one skillet for the sauce – it's minimal dishes, maximum flavor.
Beyond the Basics: Making it Your Own
This recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with different types of sausage. Spicy Italian sausage would add a nice kick, while a milder variety would be great for picky eaters. You could also add other vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms, to amp up the nutritional value and add some extra color to the plate. If you're a cheese aficionado, experiment with different cheeses beyond parmesan. A sprinkle of pecorino romano or a creamy ricotta would add a delightful twist. And don't be afraid to get creative with the herbs. Fresh basil, oregano, or thyme would all complement the flavors beautifully.
More Than Just a Meal: A Moment of Peace
In the whirlwind of daily life, cooking can often feel like just another task on a never-ending to-do list. But for me, it's a moment of peace, a chance to connect with myself and my family. The rhythmic chopping of vegetables, the sizzle of the sausage in the pan – these small actions ground me, reminding me to slow down and appreciate the simple pleasures in life. This pasta dish is more than just a meal; it's a reminder to take a breath, to savor the flavors, and to appreciate the simple things that bring joy to our lives.
So, the next time you're feeling overwhelmed by the demands of your day, I encourage you to try this recipe. It's a quick, easy, and delicious way to nourish your body and soul. It's a testament to the fact that healthy eating doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. Sometimes, the simplest recipes are the most satisfying, offering a delicious escape from the everyday chaos.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side salad for a complete and balanced meal.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
- Pair with a crisp white wine or a light-bodied red.
- Leftovers are great for lunch the next day!
This recipe isn't just a meal; it’s a moment of self-care in a busy life, a testament to the fact that healthy eating can be simple and enjoyable. So go ahead, give it a try and savor the delicious results!
