Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinner game with a dish that's bursting with flavor and color? Look no further than this Smoked Sausage Asparagus Pasta! In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a delightful Italian-inspired meal that will impress your family and friends alike. With tender asparagus, savory smoked sausage, and juicy cherry tomatoes, this recipe is not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes. Get ready to dive into a bowl of comfort that’s quick, easy, and oh-so-satisfying—your taste buds will thank you!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into pieces
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 8 oz of pasta (penne or rotini), 1 lb of smoked sausage sliced into rounds, 1 bunch of asparagus trimmed and cut into 1-2 inch pieces, 2 cloves of garlic minced, 1 cup of cherry tomatoes halved, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add a generous pinch of salt and the pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced smoked sausage to the skillet. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and heated through.
- Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet with the sausage. Sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
- Now, add the asparagus pieces to the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the asparagus is bright green and tender-crisp.
- Once the asparagus is cooked, add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes are softened.
- When the pasta is done cooking, reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sausage and vegetables.
- Gently toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to help create a light sauce that coats the pasta. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit for a minute. Serve the smoked sausage asparagus pasta warm, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips
- Pasta Perfection: Make sure to cook your pasta al dente for the best texture. This will help it hold up against the hearty sausage and crisp asparagus.
- Sautéing with Love: When cooking the sausage, don’t rush! Let it brown nicely to enhance the flavor. A little caramelization goes a long way.
- Seasoning Savvy: Taste as you go! Adjust the salt and pepper to your liking, and consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Pasta Water Magic: Don’t forget to reserve that pasta water! It’s starchy and can help create a silky sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.
- Garnish for Glamour: Finish your dish with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of olive oil for an extra layer of flavor and a gourmet touch.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 617kcal
Carbohydrates: 54g
Protein: 26g
Fat: 36g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 80mg
