Chicken Sausage Pasta with Spinach, Lemon, and Green Beans
If you’re on the hunt for a quick, wholesome meal that packs a punch of flavor, look no further than this Chicken Sausage Pasta with Spinach, Lemon, and Green Beans. This dish is not only vibrant and satisfying, but it also comes together in less than 30 minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights or a leisurely dinner with friends, this pasta recipe balances the savory richness of chicken sausage with the freshness of vegetables and the zing of lemon. It’s a delightful way to enjoy a nutritious meal without sacrificing taste. Let’s dive into why this dish is a must-try!
Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing
This Chicken Sausage Pasta is a culinary masterpiece that brings together a medley of flavors and textures. The juicy chicken sausage adds a hearty element, while the green beans and spinach offer a crisp freshness that brightens each bite. The sun-dried tomatoes introduce a sweet and tangy depth, and the lemon juice ties everything together with a burst of citrusy brightness. The combination of spices, including Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes, elevates the dish to a whole new level, making it a favorite among family and friends.
Ingredient List
To create this vibrant dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 8 ounces uncooked pasta (your choice, such as penne or fusilli)
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 16 ounces chicken sausage, cut into bite-size pieces
- 12 ounces fresh green beans, cut into bite-size pieces
- 1/2 cup frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained (or 1 cup fresh, chopped)
- 2 tablespoons sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 dashes Italian seasoning
- Red pepper flakes to taste
- Salt & pepper to taste
What You’ll Need (Gear)
Before you start cooking, gather the following gear:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Skillet for sautéing
- Colander for draining pasta
- Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
- Knife and cutting board for chopping ingredients
Chicken Sausage Pasta with Spinach, Lemon, and Green Beans: From Prep to Plate
Now that you have everything ready, let’s walk through the steps to create this delicious Chicken Sausage Pasta.
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the uncooked pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken Sausage
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken sausage pieces and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Step 3: Add the Vegetables
To the skillet, add the minced garlic, chopped green beans, and sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for another 3-4 minutes until the green beans are tender but still crisp.
Step 4: Incorporate Spinach and Seasonings
Next, stir in the thawed spinach, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the flavors and let it cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Step 5: Combine with Pasta
Add the drained pasta to the skillet, along with the reserved pasta water and lemon juice. Toss everything together until the pasta is thoroughly coated, and everything is heated through.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once everything is well combined, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of more red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon if desired. Enjoy your delicious Chicken Sausage Pasta with Spinach, Lemon, and Green Beans!
Dietary Swaps & Alternatives
If you’re looking to customize this recipe to suit your dietary needs or preferences, consider these swaps:
- Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta: Substitute with a whole wheat or gluten-free pasta option for a healthier or gluten-free version.
- Vegan Sausage: For a plant-based option, replace chicken sausage with your favorite vegan sausage.
- Fresh Spinach: If using fresh spinach, simply add it to the skillet in the last few minutes of cooking to wilt it.
- Extra Veggies: Feel free to add in other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli for additional nutrition.
Notes on Ingredients
This Chicken Sausage Pasta with Spinach, Lemon, and Green Beans is versatile and allows for ingredient substitutions based on what you have on hand. Here are a few notes to keep in mind:
- Chicken Sausage: Look for high-quality chicken sausage with no added fillers or preservatives for the best flavor.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Packed in oil or dried, both options work well. Just ensure they are chopped into small pieces for even distribution.
- Pasta Water: The reserved pasta water helps to create a silky sauce, so don’t skip this step!
Keep-It-Fresh Plan
This Chicken Sausage Pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen it up. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Common Questions
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute chicken sausage with turkey, pork, or even a plant-based sausage to suit your dietary preferences.
Is this pasta recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this Chicken Sausage Pasta is great for meal prep! Just store the portions in individual containers, and you’ll have ready-to-go lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans or spinach if you prefer. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding them to the dish.
What can I serve with this pasta dish?
This pasta pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or garlic bread. A light vinaigrette or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese would also enhance the flavors beautifully.
Next Up in Your Queue
- Creamy Garlic Mushroom Pasta
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- Zucchini Noodles with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes
- Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
In Closing
This Chicken Sausage Pasta with Spinach, Lemon, and Green Beans is a delicious and wholesome meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With its vibrant colors and delightful flavors, it’s sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, this recipe is easy to follow and adaptable to your personal taste. So grab your apron, and let’s get cooking! You won’t regret adding this dish to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy every bite!
Chicken Sausage Pasta with Spinach, Lemon, and Green Beans
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the uncooked pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken sausage pieces and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- To the skillet, add the minced garlic, chopped green beans, and sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for another 3-4 minutes until the green beans are tender but still crisp.
- Next, stir in the thawed spinach, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the flavors and let it cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet, along with the reserved pasta water and lemon juice. Toss everything together until the pasta is thoroughly coated, and everything is heated through.
- Once everything is well combined, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of more red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon if desired.
Notes
- Look for high-quality chicken sausage with no added fillers or preservatives for the best flavor.
- Sun-dried tomatoes can be packed in oil or dried; just ensure they are chopped into small pieces for even distribution.
- The reserved pasta water helps to create a silky sauce, so don’t skip this step!
