Sausage and Pasta Dinner

Submitted by Hope Rock

"A healthy take on Sausage and Pasta combined. I enjoy this on a cold night. This is Low in calories and on the budget as well."

 

• Ready In: 40mins
• Ingredients: 14
• Yields: 4 Entrees
• Serves: 4

ingredients

• 4 ounces smoked turkey sausage (Precooked)
• 1 large leek (Chopped, Soaked and Cleaned)
• 2 garlic cloves (Minced)
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 2⁄3 cup chicken broth
• 1⁄2 cup red pepper (Sliced 1-inch strips)
• 3⁄4 cup sliced mushrooms
• 8 cups fresh spinach
• 1 1⁄2 cups pasta (any type, al dente)
• 1⁄4 cup fresh basil (freshly chopped)
• 1⁄4 cup parmesan cheese (grated parmesan)
• 1⁄2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (Thickening agent)
• 1 teaspoon water

directions

1. Begin by bringing a large pot of water to boil for the pasta. While waiting for the water to boil cut 4 oz of sausage into pieces, mince garlic and dice/clean the leeks; set aside.
2. In a large skillet heat up garlic and leeks until tender. Stir in sausage pieces, chicken broth, & red peppers. Bring skillet to boil, reduce heat. Add spinach to the skillet and cook for 1 to 2 minutes or until greens are wilted.
3. Keep an eye on the pasta, be sure not to over cook. Once pasta is cooked al dente, drain and use only 1 1/2 cups of the pasta. Save the rest of the pasta for another delicious dinner.
4. To create the thickener.
5. Take 1 tsp cornstarch and equal parts water in a small bowl or cup and stir until well combined. Pour the cornstarch mixture in with skillet and bring to a small boil until the liquid begins to thicken.
6. Turn off the heat and allow to set for 3 minutes.
7. Sprinkle 1 tsp black pepper over the sausage and spinach mixture and combine well.
8. Split the sausage mixture in the skillet into 4 equal parts. Plate each serving & sprinkle fresh chopped basil and grated parmesan on top.
9. FYI: The pepper does bring a bit of heat. If you're not a fan of spicy heat in a dish, simply omit the black pepper in the end or reduce the amount of pepper. If you prefer a more soupy style to this dish (which is just as good) simply omit the thickening agent.