Savoring Italian Sausage & Pasta Delight
This Italian Sausage & Pasta recipe delivers an exquisite blend of flavors that is perfect for every season. The juicy, savory Italian sausage perfectly melds with the sweetness of balsamic vinegar and the rich complexity of red wine, creating a sauce that coats the pasta beautifully. Enhanced with aromatic herbs like basil and oregano, this dish is not just a meal but a celebration of Italian cuisine. Ideal for a relaxed family dinner or an impressive gathering with friends, this recipe will transport you straight to Italy with every bite.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
13
Ingredients
Ingredients
Italian sausage
1 lb (cut into 4 pieces)
Caraway seed
to taste (optional, for seasoning)
Olive oil
2 tablespoons (for sautéing)
Onion
1 medium (chopped)
Garlic
4 cloves (chopped)
Chopped tomatoes or diced tomatoes
1 can (with liquid)
Balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons (for sauce)
Red wine
6 ounces (for sauce)
Ground basil
1 tablespoon (for flavor)
Crushed oregano
1 tablespoon (for flavor)
Salt
to taste (for seasoning)
Pepper
to taste (for seasoning)
Parmesan cheese
for serving (freshly grated)
Instructions
1
Begin by cutting each Italian sausage link into four equal pieces for even cooking.
2
Transfer the sausage pieces into a microwave-safe dish. Optionally, sprinkle caraway seeds over the sausages and cover the dish.
3
Microwave the sausages on high for 5 minutes. Stir the sausages, then continue microwaving in 1-minute intervals until they are fully cooked and nicely browned.
4
Once cooked, drain the excess liquid from the sausages and set them aside.
5
In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing them until they are tender and fragrant.
6
Stir in the canned chopped or diced tomatoes (including their liquid), balsamic vinegar, and red wine. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
7
Add the ground basil, crushed oregano, salt, and pepper to taste, and stir. Cover the saucepan and allow the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
8
After 10 minutes, add the cooked sausage back into the sauce. Stir everything together, cover, and let it simmer on low for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
9
While the sauce simmers, cook your favorite pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving a little pasta water if needed.
10
Serve the savory sausage sauce over the pasta, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savoring Italian Sausage & Pasta Delight?
It is a savory Italian-inspired dish featuring sausage, a rich red wine and balsamic tomato sauce, and pasta.
What kind of Italian sausage should I use?
You can use sweet, mild, or hot Italian sausage links depending on your spice preference.
How should I prepare the sausage links?
Cut each Italian sausage link into four equal pieces to ensure even cooking and bite-sized portions.
Is it necessary to use a microwave for the sausage?
The recipe suggests microwaving for speed, but you can also brown the sausage pieces in a skillet over medium heat.
What is the purpose of caraway seeds in this recipe?
Caraway seeds are an optional seasoning that adds an earthy, aromatic flavor to the sausages.
How long do I microwave the sausages?
Start with 5 minutes on high, then continue in 1-minute intervals until they are browned and fully cooked.
Should I drain the sausage after cooking?
Yes, draining the excess liquid helps prevent the pasta sauce from becoming too greasy.
What type of tomatoes should I use for the sauce?
Use one can of chopped or diced tomatoes and include the liquid to form the base of the sauce.
Can I substitute the red wine?
Yes, you can substitute red wine with beef broth or additional tomato juice if you prefer an alcohol-free version.
What kind of red wine works best?
A dry red wine like Chianti, Merlot, or Cabernet Sauvignon complements the savory Italian flavors best.
Why is balsamic vinegar added to the sauce?
Balsamic vinegar provides a touch of sweetness and acidity that balances the richness of the meat and wine.
Can I use fresh basil and oregano?
Yes, you can use fresh herbs; typically, you should use three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried.
How long should the sauce simmer?
The sauce simmers for 10 minutes initially, then an additional 30 minutes after adding the sausage.
What is the best pasta shape for this recipe?
Hearty shapes like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni are excellent for catching the chunky sausage sauce.
How do I cook the pasta to al dente?
Follow the package instructions and test the pasta 1-2 minutes early; it should be firm but tender to the bite.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, use a certified gluten-free pasta and ensure your Italian sausage brand does not contain gluten fillers.
How do I prevent the sauce from sticking?
Keep the heat on low during the 30-minute simmer and stir the mixture occasionally.
What should I use for garnish?
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is the recommended garnish for added saltiness and creaminess.
How many people does this recipe serve?
Based on 1 lb of sausage and typical pasta portions, this recipe serves approximately 4 to 6 people.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely; bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach would be excellent additions to the sauce.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, the flavors in the sauce often improve after sitting, making it a great option for leftovers.
How should I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can I freeze the sausage sauce?
Yes, the sauce freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
What is the best way to reheat this dish?
Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork?
Yes, Italian turkey or chicken sausage works well as a leaner alternative to traditional pork sausage.
Do I need to peel the garlic?
Yes, remove the papery skin from the garlic cloves and chop them finely before sautéing.
What type of onion should I use?
A standard medium yellow or white onion is ideal for its balanced sweetness when cooked.
Can I skip the caraway seeds?
Yes, the caraway seeds are optional and can be omitted without affecting the structural integrity of the recipe.
What side dishes go well with this pasta?
A crisp green salad, steamed broccoli, or warm garlic bread are perfect accompaniments.
Is this a spicy dish?
The spice level depends entirely on whether you choose mild or hot Italian sausage.