Tomato Spinach Sausage Pasta Recipe

Introduction

This Tomato Spinach Sausage Pasta recipe is a deliciously hearty dish that combines the bold flavors of sausage with the freshness of spinach, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs. Whether you’re in need of a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal to share with family, this dish offers the perfect balance of rich, savory flavors and light, healthy ingredients. The pasta absorbs all the delicious juices from the sausage and tomatoes, creating a flavorful and satisfying meal.

In addition to being mouth-watering, this recipe is incredibly easy to make, with minimal prep time and just a few basic ingredients. The natural sweetness of the tomatoes pairs perfectly with the savory sausage and earthy spinach, making this pasta a dish that’s sure to please everyone around the table. Serve it with a sprinkle of parmesan or a dash of red pepper flakes for an added kick, and you have the ultimate pasta dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Savory Sausage Flavor

The combination of sausage and pasta is a classic pairing that delivers a deeply satisfying taste in every bite.

2. Packed with Veggies

With fresh spinach and tomatoes, this dish is full of nutrients. It’s a great way to sneak some veggies into your meal while keeping it flavorful.

3. Quick and Easy

This recipe is perfect for busy nights, as it takes minimal time to prepare and cook. In just 30 minutes, you can have a comforting, hearty meal ready.

4. One-Pan Wonder

Everything is cooked in one pan, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.

5. Customizable

You can add more veggies, switch up the sausage type, or even use gluten-free pasta for a versatile meal that suits any dietary need.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups uncooked basmati rice
• 6 chicken thighs (boneless, skinless, or with skin)
• 1 ½ tsp mixed herbs (Italian seasoning works well)
• 2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup onion, chopped (any type of onion works)
• 1 tbsp butter
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken stock
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup green onions to garnish (can substitute with chives, parsley, or coriander)

Variations

• Swap the Meat: You can use ground turkey or chicken sausage instead of the chicken thighs for a leaner option.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to toss in some bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to increase the veggie content.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta if you’re following a gluten-free diet.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, or use spicy sausage to bring in more spice.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Chicken Thighs

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and mixed herbs.
2. Add the chicken thighs to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside to rest.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic

1. In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the chopped onions. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the onions soften and become translucent.
2. Add the garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Step 3: Prepare the Rice

1. Add the uncooked basmati rice to the skillet and stir to coat it with the flavorful onion and garlic mixture.
2. Pour in the chicken stock, season with salt and pepper to taste, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat, cover the skillet, and cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. While the rice is cooking, slice the cooked chicken thighs into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
2. Once the rice is done, stir in the sliced chicken and fresh spinach. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts down.
3. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish the dish with chopped green onions, chives, parsley, or coriander as desired.
2. Serve the Tomato Spinach Sausage Pasta warm, and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Adjust the Rice: If you prefer a creamier texture, you can replace some of the chicken stock with heavy cream or coconut milk.
• Leftover Chicken: If you have leftover rotisserie chicken, you can easily substitute it for the cooked chicken thighs to save time.
• To Make it Spicier: If you like a bit of heat, use hot Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix.

How to Serve

• With Garlic Bread: Serve this dish alongside a slice of garlic bread or crusty rolls to soak up the flavorful sauce.
• On a Salad Bed: For a lighter option, serve it on a bed of fresh greens or a simple salad.
• Top with Cheese: Add freshly grated parmesan or mozzarella on top for an extra cheesy twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen if you want to make a large batch. Allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little more broth if necessary.

Reheating

For the best results, reheat the pasta in a skillet over medium heat with a little chicken broth to prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of basmati rice?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice, but keep in mind it will require a longer cooking time and more liquid.

2. Can I use other vegetables besides spinach?

Absolutely! You can use kale, arugula, or even frozen peas in place of spinach.

3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock for a vegetarian-friendly version.

4. What if I don’t have chicken thighs?

You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or even ground chicken as a substitute.

Conclusion

This Tomato Spinach Sausage Pasta is an easy-to-make, flavorful dish that brings together tender chicken, hearty rice, and fresh spinach in a comforting sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or a weekend family dinner, this recipe offers versatility, nutrition, and amazing flavor. Enjoy this dish with your favorite sides or as is for a satisfying meal!

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