Sausage & Orecchiette Pasta

Sausage and orecchiette pasta is a delicious and comforting dish. Here’s a simple recipe for you to try:Ingredients:

• 12 oz (340g) orecchiette pasta
• 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage, casings removed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1/2 cup chicken broth or white wine
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
• Fresh basil leaves, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the orecchiette pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Sausage:
   • In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables:
   • In the same skillet, add the minced garlic, chopped onion, and diced bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
4. Combine Ingredients:
   • Return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Add the diced tomatoes (undrained), chicken broth or white wine, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Simmer:
   • Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.
6. Add Spinach and Pasta:
   • Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cooked orecchiette pasta. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the pasta is heated through.
7. Adjust Seasonings and Serve:
   • Taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
8. Serve:
   • Serve the sausage and orecchiette pasta hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil leaves if desired.

This sausage and orecchiette pasta dish is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a satisfying meal any day of the week. Enjoy!