Summer Pasta Spicy – With Sausage and Kale
A quick and flavorful weeknight dish featuring spicy Italian sausage and kale tossed with pasta for a vibrant, satisfying meal.
Get ready for summer with this delightful Summer Pasta Spicy, featuring sausage and kale! Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish offers a burst of flavors and a healthy twist.
Summer Pasta Spicy – With Sausage and Kale
- A quick and flavorful weeknight dish.
- Packed with nutritious kale and spicy sausage.
- Ideal for meal prep, making it perfect for busy lifestyles.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta: Your choice (spaghetti or penne work well).
- 1 lb spicy Italian sausage: Crumbled for enhanced flavor.
- 4 cups kale: Fresh and washed, chopped into small pieces.
- 2 cloves garlic: Minced, for aromatic zing.
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes: Adjust for your spice preference.
- 1/4 cup olive oil: For sautéing and rich taste.
- Salt and pepper: To taste.
How to Make
To make this Summer Pasta Spicy, start by boiling your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the crumbled sausage, cooking until browned and fully cooked. Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, letting the aromas come together for about a minute. Once the sausage is cooked, add your chopped kale, stirring until it wilts. Drain the pasta, reserving a bit of water, and combine it with the sausage and kale mixture in the skillet. Toss everything together, adding salt, pepper, and reserved pasta water as necessary for your preferred consistency. Enjoy your vibrant, spicy summer meal!
Tips
- Use whole wheat pasta for extra fiber.
- Feel free to substitute any leafy green you like.
Make-Ahead
This pasta can be prepped ahead by cooking the sausage and kale in advance, making your weeknight cooking even quicker!
Storing
Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Freezing
This dish can be frozen before adding the kale. Cooked sausage can be stored separately for up to two months.
Reheating
Reheat the pasta on the stove with a splash of water or broth to bring back its original texture.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this dish with a fresh green salad and a glass of white wine for a delightful summer dinner!
For the best kitchen tools to make this recipe, consider checking out this high-quality pasta pot for perfectly cooked noodles every time.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 1 lb spicy Italian sausage
- 4 cups kale
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
Cook Pasta
Cook pasta until al dente in boiling water.
Brown Sausage
In a skillet, brown sausage over medium heat.
Add Garlic and Flakes
Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring for about one minute.
Cook Kale
Add chopped kale and cook until wilted.
Combine and Finish
Toss the pasta with the sausage and kale; adjust with reserved pasta water as needed.
Notes
- Use whole wheat pasta for extra fiber.
- Feel free to substitute any leafy green you like.
Nutrition Facts
Frequently asked questions
Can I substitute kale with spinach or chard?
Yes, you can swap in spinach or Swiss chard; keep in mind cooking times may vary slightly.
How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Can this be made vegetarian?
Yes, substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage or mushrooms and use vegetable broth.
What goes well with this dish?
A light green salad and a crusty loaf of bread pair nicely.
Can I use frozen kale?
Yes, thaw and drain well; add during the kale step and cook until heated through.
